Reflections of the Way Life Use To Be

Some of the key learning points that I've taken away include: knowing thy audience and critical thinking helps raise the bar for what works and doesn't work. The former is kind of crazy because before I was victim to assuming that it was easy to determine what the audience wanted. Very foolish on my part, I know. But, after taking 663, I realized that there is a lot more to understanding the audience. No assumptions can be made. The more people of your audience that you talk to, the better because it helps make the general consensus stronger. I'll definitely apply that my health career. Likewise, being critical of what I see in the media really gives me a new respect for the level of skill required to develop effective campaigns. It's important to be mindful and respectful to your TARGET audience and a little thinking outside of the box never hurt anyone either. The group project gave me a taste of both lessons.

When I grow up...

Though I’m not graduating until next year, the idea of what I’m going to do after graduation remains a prominent thought in my mind. I didn’t become a public health student for the love of money. Ideally, I would just love to do what I love to the point where my work didn’t feel like a job. Is that too much to ask for? Maybe not, but is it too much to ask for that my dream job come with a decent salary? I thought it was until most recently. Tuesday’s discussion on health careers really enlightened me on the array of options available to public health students. Each semester, it’s refreshing to know that I don’t have to limit myself to one box in public health, but in actuality, the sky is the limit. My dream job seems more tangible. There are a lot of opportunities out there, but if I’m going to make a difference in the public or private sector, I realize the ultimate key is showing that return of investment. We’re familiar with the expression, “Show me the money”. But, it’s often more about that. The customers and the sponsors ultimately want to see our ideas will make an impact. I’ll wrap this up, but social marketing is a great avenue to explore for those who are interested. It’s something new to Google ☺

My Contribution to Entertainment Education

For those Marines out there, let me know what you think. For those who aren't Marines, let me know what you think, too.

What In the World Is Web 2.0

For those of you who haven't heard of Web 2.0, here's a little video to explain what it's about.
Crazy, huh? Well, many of us our apart of it. I guess we better get with it or we'll get left in the dust. I find myself in between two generations. I can talk on the phone and text to my heart's content. But, I think that my older generation is more of the phone and face to face and my younger generation is more of the text and IM Myspace personas. But, like I say, I'm in between the two. But, you thought that video was something else. There's also this Web 2.0 concept called "Second Life". It's a virtual reality where you parade around different communities talking to other cyber folks. I thought this Second Life was really far out there, but apparently it's really big. I was surprised to learn that the US Marine Corps and American Cancer Society have Second Life territories. As I write this, I think you just have to check it out for yourself. Second Life even has games you can play. On another note, I think that the custom features that we can create on given spaces such as social networks and blogs really takes issue involvement to a new level. Web 2.0 bring power back to the consumer and as a consumer, I almost feel dual-hatted. I mean, not only am I receiving the information from the masses, but I'm sending info right back out to them. Is Web 2.0 the first pure taste of democracy? My mind can't even comprehend what firsts we'll see with Web 3.0. Stay tuned.

Media Advocacy! Be Your Own Advocate

I was looking for something that spoke girl power, so I went to google and typed "Girl Power" in and this is what I came up with.
It was either that or a picture of the Spice girls. Crazy huh? Not really.
I mean, listen to what Dr. Kilbourne has to say.
Everyone has brought up excellent points here. Dr. Kilbourne's video was thought provoking. Like others mentioned, her lecture has made me look at ads more critically than ever. As I type, I'm flipping through a Lucky magazine that's all about shopping, at least they say. But, more than anything, over half of the magazine is filled with ads. This one I just came across says, "You know that feeling when you find the perfect figure. And we're not talking salaries....The Natrelle Breast Enhancement Collection". The ad has this lady who is bare from the waist up. Actually, you can only see her from the waist up and she's covering her breasts and smiling. I mean, it's everything that Dr. Kilbourne was talking about. And, it's obvious that the ads are killing us softly. But to change that, it's going to take a change not in one individual, but collectively, as a society. "Good luck" many may say, but if media advocacy has taught me anything, it's assured me that we have to be our own advocates. This week in class, Dania recommended we check out "Unnatural Causes". I didn't get a chance to watch the show tonight, but I did catch some of the clips from tonight's show online and they hit home the importance of all of this, especially when chronic diseases plague so many specific communities. There is power in the community and the community can create change. "Unnatural Causes" does a great job of media advocacy and I would love to watch more. I would say more, but check out my blog page instead.

PR: Truth and Consequences

My computer and I had a paragraph written here and I lost it. So, I'm going to have to finish this up tomorrow. But, as a sneak preview. This clip is from one of the best television series, "The Wire". This show went strong for 5 seasons and the last season which aired this month exposures the media for what it is worth. As we learn, PR plays an important role in politics and the publics who have impact on organizations and other institutions. The job of PR is to tell the truth and not manufacture it. But, with the PR tools that include news releases and pitch letters, we learn how not to make the truth dull but exciting. If you are a big fan of the Wire, you know exactly what I'm talking about. For those of you don't, stay tuned. I have something on NPR to share with you this weekend.

You Control Your Choice for All of the "Wrong" Reasons

After reviewing everyone's comments, I agree with a lot of what has been said. I concur with Emily and Dalila in that "wrong" reason health promotion is actually for all of the right reasons. Changing health behaviors is the bottom line as long as no one gets hurt - no harm, no foul. I thought the psychology of choice was pretty powerful. At first, when I read the article, I was really confused. But, after lecture, it made more sense. Presenting choice in a way that empowers people to make a decision in which there is something to gain and not a lot to lose can make a big difference. It's difficult to frame a message when it's so easy to think you have all the answers. But, as Noni added, the frame of reference can make all of the difference in the world. Delivering the message in such a way where it makes the audience think/feel/do what you want is priceless when it's something that can literally change a person's life and save it in the process. I just have to add that I only regret not knowing more of this earlier in life. While we've learned so much already, I imagine that we've only touched the tip of the iceberg. Health communication is a powerful tool that can be used in so many ways. It's pretty exciting stuff.

Put it in writing?

agree with the other ladies. Health literacy is a problem that needs a solution. I had this conversation with a colleague of mine today. Her father recently passed away and she and her mother were having so much difficulty trying to understand all of the forms they had to fill out so her mother could receive Veteran's Affairs' Benefits. Things were so complex with unfamiliar terms that they went to a specialist to help them decipher the forms. I consider my colleague to be an intelligent person. But, it just proves the point that low literacy doesn't mean unintelligent. I was more convinced of this after watching the videos yesterday. It is frustrating to realize how much of problem health literacy is: I struggle with it at times and I can only imagine how others struggle. I think a picture is worth a thousand words and people should incorporate pictures into more products to get their message across. I think transcreation is a great idea and it is the direction we need to go if we want to see the current situation improve. Less is often more. And, I'm working on it :)

Conspiracy Theory? You Decide.

Segmentation is more often used for evil than good. But, after this week in class, I am convinced that segmentation is a powerful tool that can be used to switch up the imbalanced dynamic. In the "Hard to Reach" article, it was easy to see how often society segments groups on so many levels for all of the wrong reasons. But, it was sensible to realize that if we stop using demographics to interpret psychographics, society would learn so much about the voice that goes under the radar. It just kind of makes you wonder why more people don't stop and listen. But, nevertheless, the psychographic technique is terrific because it emphasizes the importance of truly understanding your customer. I believe that if you treat the customer right, you will gain their trust and loyalty for years. Well, as I type this, I'm beginning to realize that while this may be true, you have to treat the customer right all of the time or today, you'll lose the customer in a heartbeat and another company will gain their loyalty. The video, "Culture Spies" illustrated this well. I was amazed, but not surprised at how much goes on undetected by the masses as corporations drain and manipulate consumers. I mean corporations are strategic. For years, we're made to think that wow, certain companies magically understand us. But, little do we know that we're feeding them enough information where they can use it to tell us what we need or want. (Yea, these guys are good.) But, as public health advocates, I think we have to be just as good if not better at segmenting because health is not a fad. And, while healthy may be trendy now, as public health students we have to work hard to understand the lifestyles and attitudes of those who want to make sure it never goes out of style and those who never could care less about "healthy" causes. Both opinions matter and even those in between if we want to make an impact and see lasting results. Focus groups anyone?

They say, "A picture is worth a thousand words." But to explain the picture to all those who aren't boxing fans, last Saturday a big fight took place between Kelly Pavlik and Jermain Taylor. Kelly Pavlik is from Ohio. Hillary wanted to make a connection between the audience by showing support for Pavlik (the undefeated champion) hence the boxing gloves and just as Pavlik would win the fight against Taylor, Hillary implies she will do the same with Ohio's help. Yet, with only less than a couple of a weeks away from the Ohio primary, a knock out remains to be seen. But, what I took away from this was just how segmented an audience can be. I mean, just because they're all Democrats doesn't mean they all see things the same way. There's segmentation even in party lines. This is obvious in politics, but it's better illustrated when we pay closer attention to this year's election and evaluate how the Democrat. audience is segmented: working class, union labor, middle class, southwest, northeast, experience, change, boxing fans, non-boxing fans and then there's always race, ethnicity, age, and gender. But, I think the more challenging part to the whole segmentation thing is getting below the surface - understanding the psychographics and behavior of your target audience which presents different challenges depending on your available resources.

Shut up and listen. No seriously - try it!

Okay, so for those of you who really know me. I'm a talker. My brother says, "Amanda, you have so much to say, you should really right a book. " But, it's in that tone, like "Can you please shut up now." Well, I think I found out how to control my natural tendency for gab and blab. In class, we learned how to be an active listener. And, I can't tell you how much of a difference it has made already. I know my boyfriend appreciates it. hahaha. Well, to try it at home for any talkers out there, you just ask one question and fight the resistance to ask more questions, but just listen to them. Acknowledge their comments, try to not make any judgements. And, try to avoid closed end questions that would give your like a "one word, sentence, or yes/no response." It's challenging, but if you want to get to know someone even better or want to know if this is a person who would want to get to know better, you should try it. Well I'll be curious to hear how it went for you out there. Communication is healthy. And, after all these years, I thought talking was the cure. But, I think listening is even healthier - it just requires practice. It's fun when you get it to work and don't worry about the awkward moments of silence. It ironically helps. So, go on - try it. :)

Priceless lessons learned

Like many have stated, this week's topics couldn't have been timed better. The lessons learned were practical. I'm using them already. For example, the active listening exercise was a big one. It's an invaluable skill. But, because I'm a talker, it does require practice. Dealing with awkward pauses is uncomfortable, but it's amazing how it works if you can wait out the other person in silence. The Andy Goodman video was priceless as well. Though we didn't a chance to watch it in class yet, I did watch it and let me tell you - now whenever I prepare for a presentation, I think about how I can tell a story. This too is challenging because it's so easy to rely on the powerpoint. But, if we can go beyond the bullet points, I can only imagine the effect it will have on the audience. On another note, the bit on non verbal communication is so true and priceless. At work, there are so many faces that fit all 3 of the categories. But, by far, the open face would the best face to use. Even when I make a phone call at work or answer a contractor's questions, I consciously make an effort to make sure my open face is on. It's amazing how much of a difference it makes in a conversation. And, the formative research tips were great, too. I got to facilitate my first focus group the other week and while it was good practice, I wish I had acquired some of the skills and tips learned this week before I went in to the group. While the group participation was strong, I think it would have been stronger had I had the skills in my back pocket. So, if I get the opportunity to facilitate again, I'll definitely use them. Well, I could go on, but I think I'm going to go practice my skills. Like Kate said, this class might even make me a better [girlfriend]. And, she's right, you can't beat that.

Lipitor's Endorser? Say what?

Okay, so speaking of spokepeople and sources, here is another one. Dr. Jarvik. He's the Lipitor endorser, a drug that lowers your cholesterol. While he has a medical degree, he is not a certified cardiologist nor is he licensed to practice medicine. So, why is he endorsing this product like he is. It's things like this that are frustrating to me because while this is an ad, we think it's a credible source and it's not. Family beware of those who are not looking for the type of money that jingles, but the type of money that folds.

A song in my head and an idea too

KAB and BAK made sense to me because I’ve fallen victim of it before. A lot of times it happens to me when I’m listening to music on the radio. I hear a new song, I don’t like it, I change the station – until they’re playing it so often, I finally give in, and it grows on me. My attitude changes and I’m thinking maybe it’s not such a bad song after all. The beat is good and is something I can work out to or the lyrics are actually meaningful. Then, I do more research (knowledge), check out the songs on iTunes – maybe even purchase the song – sad, but true – I know. But, imagine, if we were to take this same scenario/concept and apply it to a public health issue like HIV testing, mammograms, or an anti-drunk-driving campaigns. For instance, we have a program at work that gives Marines a free pass to get home safely if they’ve had to much to drink. It’s called the Arrive Alive Program. Many don’t know about the program or how it works, but they know the card can get them a free ride home. They use the card. They see it works and their attitude changes about drinking and driving. They call our office if they need more cards and to get more info on how the program operates. This knowledge gets passed on to their Marine buddies and the cycle perpetuates. On a side note, heuristic cues are definitely the way to get an audience that may not normally give you the time of day. But, whether it’s Marines, seniors, tweens, or teens, it’s challenging to know what they want to hear and from whom as the exercise in class proved. However, I’m up for the challenge? Are you game?

Welcome to OurHealth Blog

OurHealth Blog is an exciting forum for expressing ideas, feelings, and reactions to things that affect our health. As a community, this exchange can be exciting, enlightening, and refreshing. For those who are new to blogging, kind of like me, don't be intimidated. It's kind of like writing in a diary when you were younger. Or, a journal, if you're all grown and sexy now. And, commenting is similar to when you're watching your guilty pleasure talk show or reality show and you have your own 2 cents that you want to contribute. Well, go for it! Just have have fun with it. It's healthy like an apple a day thing.

Consider A Food Journal?

So my co-workers and I started reading this book called Simple Steps. Each week, the book provides simple steps to achieving life's biggest little challenges, like drinking 8 glasses of water a day, walking 20 minutes, organizing your closet, daily planning, etc. Today, I read it and it talked about how we should journal what we eat for a lot of reasons: (1) we'll only eat when we're hungry, (2) we'll know what foods make us feel certain ways, (3) we'll know what moods make us want to eat certain foods, (4) we may actually change our eating habits. This just seems so logical and reasonable, I think I'll do it. At least starting Wednesday because my mind will be focused on school tomorrow and then I'll report back next week and let you guys know how it went. You should try it, too. Just keep a little notepad on you, so you can keep track of everything, including those 1 Oreo you ate before bed, or those 20 gold fish you ate while waiting for your clothes to dry, or the carrots you ate while reading your favorite book, or the Starbucks you drank while on your way to work. Whatever it is, I'll be curious to know how it changed your thinking and I'll let you know what it did to mine. Who has time to journal? I know. After all, you barely had time to read my blog, but hey you'll never know unless you never try.

Ads, Ads, and More Ads

With the new year here and January almost out, many resolutions are in process. But, it seems like this year, advertising is giving it their all to make sure these resolutions last. Especially, the resolutions that include getting in shape, losing weight, and feeling great. I don't know if it's just me (because I'd like to lose a few pounds), but I'm noticing all of the advertisements in the market for physical activity and eating healthy these days.
For example, commercials are filled with ads from gyms like Bally's and 24 Hour Fitness. They advertise membership at reduced costs for a limited time only, so act now. Yesterday, I received a coupon in the mail inviting me to the gym for 1 month on them or I could bring a guest if I am already a member of the club. This past weekend, I was driving and a Macy's commercial advertised a 3-day sale. I turned the radio up a little to catch the details and their sale that weekend was on work out clothes. I never thought of Macy's as the place to get my work out gear. But, hey, they probably didn't either, but now they're obviously on to something. And, I can’t forget Subway. The infamous Jared is still making the big bucks this year off of his endorsements. This month, Subway is advertising the black forest ham sandwich with apples and water. If you get the 6 inch sandwich, it's low in grams of fat, and only $2.99. It seems like this year, no stone is being left unturned by the advertising agencies. But, all of these ads reinforce the idea of how we are surrounded by health communication day in and day out.
It seems like the cultural transmission this year includes the never ending battle to lose weight and getting or staying physically active. While the CDC's 50 years video did touch on many health topics, they didn't touch much on exercise or weight loss. But, as someone blogged earlier, obesity will be one of the challenges society will face over the next 50 years. As public health students, one of goals should be to communicate the issues to the masses on any platform available and mobilize the community towards a better tomorrow – okay maybe I’m on political debate overload. But, advertising agencies are doing a great job selling a product and entertaining us for the most part. The fitness industry appreciates it as their profits have increased ten fold thanks to the news and advertisements. (I'll provide a dollar figure on that.) Nevertheless, health communication is a way people can access messages and gain knowledge that can empower them to make informed decisions about their health, wellbeing, mind, body, and lifestyle.
As Bandura theorizes, environment and personal factors affect change and I think the power of health communication empowers people with some degree of self-efficacy just through knowledge and examples alone. "Like hey, if they can do it, I know what I need to get it done now, and I can do it to" type of attitude. So, whether it was in class with the CDC video, on TV, or on the radio, it's evident that health communication is that flowing river, constantly changing, and reaching new people in new ways everyday. I mean just think about how we can apply health communication to the web…but that's a whole other blog. :) Stay tuned and I'll see you next week.