Citation

Gregory T, Stocking SH. Child. Youth Serv. Rev. 1981; 3(4): 277-289.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1981, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/0190-7409(81)90013-X

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The process of communicating science-based information through the mass media is often not the most effective way to meet the information needs of audiences. In many instances these needs can be met more effectively and efficiently through targeted messages. These are communication products that fill, in as direct a manner as possible, the information needs of specialized audiences.

Although targeted messages occasionally are prepared for the mass media, more often they are communicated via booklets, brochures, audiovisual materials and other media that best reach the intended audience, allowing for limitations of budget and time.

A model for producing and disseminating targeted science messages in the area of youth and family development is presented, and several case histories are described. The principal benefit of this model is that it permits scientists a measure of responsibility for the accuracy and validity of what is being communicated, and at the same time, assures that the product meets the needs of its audience.