Public Health Communication Theory and Strategies for Interpersonal Violence Prevention

Abstract

ABSTRACT The article reviews experience and lessons learned from public health communication to identify promising strategies for interventions seeking to promote interpersonal violence prevention. A public health perspective highlights multiple levels of analysis in tandem with concomitant communication theory invoking social, institutional, community, and individual change processes. Points of emphasis include a long-term perspective for social change and the importance of achieving high levels of exposure to communication efforts. Alternative communication strategies such as social mobilization, the use of local media, and media advocacy may foster incremental legal reform and service provision, as well as transformed social expectations and norms.