Health Promotion for Young Adults

Two examples of interactive multimedia CD-ROM software for informed health care consumers will be presented. The software combines elements of tailored health information, health behavior risk assessment, decision support and self-care within a framework of theories of behavioral change. The health topics addressed are responsible and safe use of alcohol for young adults and safer-sex and protection against Sexually Transmitted Disease and unplanned pregnancy for adolescents. Draft scripts of the content of each software product were written and the resulting video-based health messages delivered by members of the target audiences. Both software products are dual platform, require machines with CD-ROM players, and sound cards. The alcohol software is being used nationwide in higher education and the U.S. military; the safer sex software is being pilot tested by primary health care clinics and the Boys and Girls clubs. Assessments have focused on self-reports of intentions to change for alcohol consumption and behaviors related to safe use of alcohol, and intentions to use condoms. Summary materials with the showcase will include description of the dissemination and implementation efforts and short-term evaluation results for each product.

Health Promotion for Young Adults won the following awards in the Games:

Washington, DC (April 28, 1998):

• Outstanding Quality Award
• Special Award for Quality Evaluation
• Cool For Kids Award
• Wow! Gee Whiz! Award

Philadelphia, PA (May 27-28, 1998):

• Outstanding Quality Award
• Next In Line for the Special Award for Quality Evaluation
• Cool For Kids Award

Contact information:

Janet Reis
Associate Professor
University of Illinois
Department Community Health
121 Huff Hall
Champaign, IL 61820 Telephone: (217) 244-4530
Fax: (217) 333-2766

Email: j-reis@uiuc.edu
Web:  www.health.org/pressrel/itn/rep/23.htm
(review of Alcohol 101)

http://odphp.osophs.dhhs.gov/confrnce/partnr98/Showcase/Alcohol101.htm