Genetics in the news : studying the effects of mass media genetic health messages on health cognitions and behaviour

C.M.R. Smerecnik

doi:10.26481/dis.20100204cs

Genetics in the news : studying the effects of mass media genetic health messages on health cognitions and behaviour

C.M.R. Smerecnik

Research output: Thesis › Doctoral Thesis › Internal

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Abstract

The social value of technological applications of genetics, such as genetic screening, can be enormously improved by informing the public about them. Mass communication, however, is too general and can at best indicate possible individual differences in DNA structure. Mass media genetic health messages often lead to denial of susceptibility and do not motivate to change of unhealthy behaviour. Because of the lack of personal relevance the mass media therefore do not appear to be the ideal communication channel for the improvement of preventive behaviour on the basis of genetic information. Recommended is specifically aimed communication explaining the meaning of the message for the recipient, and additional advice about changes in lifestyle.

Original language	English
Qualification	Doctor of Philosophy
Awarding Institution	Maastricht University
Supervisors/Advisors	de Vries, Nanne, Supervisor de Vries, Hein, Supervisor Mesters, Ilse, Co-Supervisor
Award date	4 Feb 2010
Place of Publication	Maastricht
Publisher	Universitaire Pers Maastricht
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.26481/dis.20100204cs
Publication status	Published - 1 Jan 2010

Keywords

genetics
mass communication
prevention

Access to Document

10.26481/dis.20100204cs

Full TextFinal published version, 553 KB
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AbstractFinal published version, 22.9 KB
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Cite this

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