Health Communications and Malaria: The Applicability of EPPM in Predicting Bed Net Use
Open Access
Author:
Mingey, Caitlin
Area of Honors:
Communication Arts and Sciences
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Rachel Annette Smith, Thesis Supervisor Rachel Annette Smith, Thesis Supervisor Lori Ann Bedell, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
malaria bed nets Extended Parallel Process Model Mozambique
Abstract:
Malaria is a devastating illness and its endemic presence throughout Mozambique and sub-Saharan Africa carries profound consequences. Vector control through the use of protective bed nets is one strategy that has shown considerable success in reducing this disease burden. This study applied the Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM) to survey data collected from several Mozambican villages to investigate the cognitions underlying bed net use and to determine the applicability of this model in a high threat disease context. It also investigated the role of economic barriers in predicting danger/fear control responses. Overall, EPPM was not supported. A modified model using EPPM constructs as independent effects was able to predict fear control outcomes, but not danger control outcomes. Fear control was also positively associated with high levels of threat, further emphasizing the importance of considering unintended consequences in campaign design. The influence of economic stress on outcome was not supported, but also should not be summarily discounted. While the precise interactions of EPPM are called into question, its constructs are in general supported and potential expansions of the model may offer guidance in reducing malaria disease burdens.
