Abstract
The conveyance of health information through mass media is becoming more popular, even through recreation at television programs. This study aims to investigate the influence of health related TV programs for recreation on a practice action of health behavior. In particular, the relationship between attitude, belief, and behavioral practice of the TV audience is explored. Data was collected from 200 respondents for two weeks in May, 2002. The results showed that the motive of the TV audience for watching TV recreation programs was either entertainment or fun. They satisfied with the programs in general. However, the rate of desirable health behavior practice after watching those programs was low. The degree of practice was significantly correlated with belief, satisfaction, and application possibility of the TV audience to the program. In addition, two personal factors such as gender and subjective evaluation of personal health status were significant in influencing health behavior. The appearance of experts on programs was the most important factor influencing the belief of an audience. This implies that audiences want to have the health information fulfilling scientific evidences. It is suggested that TV recreation programs would be beneficial to most audience members for in receiving important health information, only if recreation and interest factors in the program as well as the evidence-based health information and knowledge are successfully combined.
