COM 365 - Health Behavior Communication

Semester Hours: 3
This course focuses on theories and research that identifies different motivations and influences for health-related behavior. This course is very similar to taking a course in persuasion; the primary difference being that the content focuses exclusively on persuasion regarding health behaviors. The course begins by identifying different models and foundations for studying health behavior. The next part identifies individual behavior by interrogating belief models, theory of reasoned action, and planned behavior. The third part of the course examines interpersonal health behaviors. This addresses topics such as the role of environment, social support, social networks, and specific forms of communication on health behavioral outcomes. The next section focuses on the group and community level of health behavior change. This looks at media, community organizing, and public health interventions. The final section presents different ways to apply the theoretical components into developing health behavior modification interventions.

Pre-requisites: Junior standing.

Offered: Occasionally.