Positive Community Norms (PCN)

Positive Community Norms (PCN) is an application of the Science of the Positive Framework. It’s how we apply the Science of the Positive in organizations, systems, communities and cultures to grow positive, protective norms. PCN focuses on the evidence-based practice of correcting misperceptions of norms to reduce harm and increase health across the social ecology. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and other agencies consistently reference positive norms, social norms, and norms science as evidence-based approaches to prevention.

SPIRIT: UNCOVER THE POSITIVEThe SPIRIT of our work is rooted in the core assumption that The Positive Exists. It may be hidden under layers of trauma, injustice, hurt, and shame; the PCN framework helps peel back those layers and uncover The Positive.
SCIENCE: MEASURE GAPSThe SCIENCE of PCN reveals that while most people adopt healthy attitudes and behaviors, many misperceive these positive norms. Misperceptions of norms are a hidden risk factor.
ACTION: CHALLENGE MISPERCEPTIONSOur ACTIONS are about building a prevention portfolio that corrects misperceptions. Accurate perceptions of positive norms become a protective factor.
RETURN: INCREASE HEALTHThe RETURN is Increase in health and safety across the social ecology. We increase the likelihood that people will make healthy decisions and encourage their peers to do the same.

What is PCN?

In this short video, Sara Thompson, Director of Training and Communications, explains Positive Community Norms and how it is used to increase health and safety.

FREE RESOURCE! An Introduction to Positive Community Norms

trainings and workshops

Improve health and safety in your community with Positive Community Norms (PCN), a framework that promotes protective factors, increases healthy norms, and changes community cultures on issues including substance use, traffic safety, child maltreatment, youth suicide, and more. PCN can help you design and implement powerful communications campaigns that shift perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors to achieve authentic community transformation.

“It was truly a worthwhile investment for us to bring a The Montana Institute training team to our small, rural community. The training demonstrated a new and eye-opening approach for our community partners. We are confident it will strengthen our regional substance use prevention efforts.”