"This chapter describes and analyzes an alternative communication and social change praxis called the Positive Deviance (PD) approach. Anchored in the traditions of wisdom, PD is based on identifying, amplifying and assessing problem-solving endogenous wisdom that is hidden and elusive, context-cent
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ered and sustainable and grounded in ethical, non-hierarchical actions. In this chapter, the key tenets and principles of the PD approach are detailed, demonstrating how communication and social change practitioners can use PD’s step-by-step method to identify and amplify problem-solving wisdom. Three applications of the PD approach are investigated: (a) combating malnutrition in Vietnam, (b) reducing school dropouts in Argentina and (c) decreasing neo-natal and maternal mortality in Pakistan. The conclusion reached is that PD is an inside out and upside down approach to communication and social change that values ordinary, uncommon and actionable wisdom that could make an extraordinary difference." (Abstract)
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"This incisive Handbook critically examines the role and place of media and communication in development and social change, reflecting a vision for change anchored in values of social justice. Outlining the genealogy and history of the field, it then investigates the possible new directions and obje
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ctives in the area. Key conclusions include an enhanced role for development communication in participatory development, active agency of stakeholders of development programs, and the operationalization of social justice in development." (Publisher description)
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"Promotion of healthy behaviors and prevention of disease are inextricably linked to cultural understandings of health and well-being. Health communication scholarship and practice can substantially and strategically contribute to people living safer, healthier, and happier lives. This book represen
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ts a concrete step in that direction by establishing a strategic framework for guiding global and local health practices. Taking a multi-disciplinary approach, the volume includes state-of-the-art theories that can be applied to health communication interventions and practical guidelines about how to design, implement, and evaluate effective health communication interventions. Few books have synthesized such a broad range of theories and strategies of health communication that are applicable globally, and also provided clear advice about how to apply such strategies. This volume combines academic research and field experience, guided by past and future research agendas and on-the-ground implementation opportunities." (Publisher description)
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"The Handbook of Global Health Communication offers a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of the role of communication processes in global public health, development and social change. It brings together 32 contributions from well-respected scholars and practitioners in the field, addressing a wid
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e range of communication approaches in current global health programs; offers an integrated view that links communication to the strengthening of health services, the involvement of affected communities in shaping health policies and improving care, and the empowerment of citizens in making decisions about health; ddopts a broad understanding of communication that goes beyond conventional divisions between informational and participatory approaches." (Publisher description)
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