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Edited by Nova Corcoran . Published by SAGE Publications , London 2007 . Paperback, 220 pages with index. RRP $64. ISBN 9781412924030 . Reviewed by Glenn Laverack School of Population Health, University of Auckland, New Zealand There has been an unfortunate emphasis in health promotion on health communication and, as this book points out, a frequent assumption by practitioners that this is “a simple linear process of providing information for immediate [behaviour change] benefit” (p. 1). Of course, this is not the case and the book rightly reminds the reader that health communication should be a two‐way exchange of information – the development of a dialogue. This book provides eight chapters, starting with the theory and models in communicating health (chapter 1) and then moving through key topic areas in health communication. It is well structured and, although there is no concluding chapter that pulls the whole book together, the reader is given the bonus of a glossary, index and activity discussions. The book provides an honest appraisal of the advantages and disadvantages of different popular communication approaches, such as the mass media and social marketing (chapter 4) and information technology (chapter 5). The book provides a welcome academic focus on the theoretical knowledge that underpins the design of health communication strategies. It offers the scholar a wide range of theoretical models for health communication, discussion on key factors such as the social and psychological (chapter 2), and clear definitions of several different approaches. The discussion on settings (chapter 6) offers some innovative ideas for communicating health. It offers the practitioner an intelligent use of case study examples, practical approaches, and the technologies used in communication as well as an important discussion on evaluation (chapter 8). The strength of the book is the way it addresses the theoretical. It provides a clear structure for learning and generous resources including objectives, activities, case studies, referenced material and additional readings. It is recommended as a useful text for both academics and students (especially undergraduate) in the subject of health education/communication. Other books that are available, such as John Hubley's Communicating Health: an action guide to health education and health promotion , do offer a more practical international focus for the reader. However, this book is a useful addition for the health communication practitioner who wants to increase their theoretical understanding of the subject.
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health – Wiley
Published: Apr 1, 2008
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