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Victor J. Strecher, PhD, MPH, Health Media Research Laboratory; UM Comprehensive Cancer Center; and School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 300 N. Ingalls, Room 5D-04, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0471, (734) 763-6099, strecher@umich.edu, Rachael H. Strecher, Community High School, c/o Health Media Research Laboratory, 300 N. Ingalls, Room 5D-04, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0471, Dehran Swart, PhD, Medical Research Council, National Health Promotion Research and Development Group, P.O. Box 19070 Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa, Ken Resnicow, PhD, Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1420 Washington Heights (SPH II), 5009, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, and Pricilla Reddy, PhD, MPH, Medical Research Council of South Africa, Francie van Zijl Drive, Parrow Valley, Cape Town, South Africa.
The development of tobacco, drug and alcohol prevention materials requires knowledge of values, attitudes, beliefs and support networks of individuals within the context of their lives. In South Africa, this context is clearly differentiated by race. The objective of this program is to use the photovoice method in the process of developing educational materials for tobacco, drug and alcohol prevention among adolescents of different racial groups. Twenty-four adolescents, eight from each of three high schools representing different racial constituencies, were provided cameras and associated training and were asked to document two issues: (1) what is important in their lives, and (2) who are important in their lives. Follow-up discussions allowed students to identify important photographs taken and how they represented these two issues. The photovoice method identified important differences and similarities between racial groups with respect to social networks, tobacco, drug and alcohol use, and motivation to refrain from or engage in these behaviors. Language used by adolescents to describe selected photographs was important in developing the tone of the educational materials. The photovoice method opened a door to the context of adolescents’ lives. Linking this method to other qualitative and quantitative strategies yielded a stronger understanding of these populations. This presentation describes the photovoice methods used and experiences from the three high schools.
Learning Objectives: As a result of this presentation, participants will have a greater understanding of
Keywords: Photovoice, Adolescent Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.