Final answer:
The agenda-setting stage is where a problem needing governmental attention is identified. This stage includes two subphases: problem identification and alternative specification, leading to the framing of issues for discussion and potential solutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The agenda-setting stage of the policy-making process involves identifying a problem that requires attention. It is a critical first phase where issues are brought into focus, and policy advocates work to make them part of the government's plan of action. The agenda-setting phase includes two subphases, problem identification and alternative specification.
During the problem identification subphase, the issues that merit discussion are identified. However, not all problems are addressed due to limited government resources and attention. Framing an issue compellingly is crucial to gaining traction. Healthcare reform, for example, gained saliency when framed in terms of healthcare access and the insurance coverage gap.
The alternative specification subphase explores possible solutions for the identified issues. This could involve debates and conflict as stakeholders have differing views on the best course of action. As an example, addressing childhood obesity can lead to a variety of proposed solutions, such as revamping school physical education programs or improving school lunch nutrition. The agenda-setting phase concludes when a problem has been paired with a potential solution, which then gets sent to decision-makers for a vote.