What is the NIH definition of basic behavioral and social sciences research (b-BSSR)?
Behavioral and social sciences research at NIH is divided into basic and applied research. Basic behavioral and social sciences research (b-BSSR) is defined as follows: Basic research in the behavioral and social sciences is designed to further our understanding of fundamental mechanisms and patterns of behavioral and social functioning relevant to the Nations health and well-being, and as they interact with each other, with biology and the environment. As is the case with basic biomedical research, basic behavioral and social sciences research does not address disease outcomes per se. Rather, it is designed to elucidate knowledge about underlying mechanisms and processes, knowledge that is fundamental to improving the understanding, explanation, observation, prediction, prevention, and management of illnesses, as well as the promotion of optimal health and well being. By contrast, applied research in the behavioral and social sciences is designed to predict or influence health outcome
