Examination of Media Channels and Types as Health Information Sources for Adolescents: Comparisons for Black/White, Male/Female, Urban/Rural

Abstract

Using Primary Socialization Theory, this survey of 452 young people indicates their most reported health learning is from television, followed by radio, print, Internet, and social networking media. Findings suggest middle school students do not differentiate among advertising, entertainment, and news content when evaluating information. Television, radio, and the Internet were more important health information sources for African American young teens than other ethnicities. Girls report highest learning from radio, and are significantly more likely than boys to gather health information from broadcast news and entertainment. Internet and online social media are more important for rural adolescents than urban ones.