This basic sourcebook shows how mass media, and particularly TV, present images that are dangerous to our health and advocates needed reforms. Nancy Signorielli describes the world of television today which has become a major source of information for people around the world--for children especially--and examines how media deal with health and how their messages affect our beliefs and behavior. Her analysis of the latest evidence concerning media images and popular beliefs and behavior and about current health guidelines is designed for students and professionals in communication, health and medical studies, and education and public information.

This important new reference volume opens with an introduction that characterizes the role that television and mass media play in our attitudes and behavior about violence, safety, health, and the environment. Topical chapters consider media images and impact on their audiences in relation to physical health and disabilities, mental illness, safety and impairment, death and suicide, the role of health professionals, sex and sexuality, drug and alcohol use and abuse, AIDS, food and nutrition, and the environment. She summarizes the latest evidence, calls for further research, and points to ways to improve media coverage of health matters. An extensive reference list is an invaluable resource for students and experts.