Long time lags between development and use of scientific innovations have resulted in
much theorizing about the process of knowledge utilization. However. there is little
empirical evidence for the validity of these theories. The present research is a retrospective
investigation of the relationships between eight theoretical factors of knowledge utiliza
tion (Davis, 1971) and whether or not treatment innovations had been implemented in
mental health agencies following consultation. Significant relatioships are found for four
factors. Agencies adopting the procedures report values and philosophies that are more
similar to the values and philosophies embodied in the innovation; they report more
accurate information and knowledge about the new procedures and how to implement them; they report a stronger need for change; and they report that they had anticipated more benefit prior to adopting the procedures than did nonusers.
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