Mass Media and Health

Catalog description

This course examines the effects of mass media on population health, from the negative impact of advertising of unhealthy products (e.g., cigarettes, alcohol and junk food), to the positive impact of public-health campaigns.  Content includes an overview of behavioral science theory, themes and approaches to advertising, mass media prevention, and health promotion campaigns.  Case studies of current media coverage and advertising campaigns will be used to demonstrate the effects of media on health and social behavior.