Abstract

Based on Kim Witte's proven Extended Parallel Process Model, a mobile communication system was developed in which men were sent reminders about their health. This study focused on reminding men about testicular self-examination (TSE), a proactive behavior used to detect testicular cancer, through the use of text messaging. A cohort of 75 men were recruited for this study and placed into one of four groups. All participants were provided with information concerning TSE and told to perform the exam monthly; two of the four groups were sent reminders via text message while the other two groups were told once about the behavior. An original 30-item survey was used to measure intention. Proper data analysis could not be performed due to an attrition rate of 71%. Nonetheless, a significant relationship was observed between pre- and post-test adherence as reported by the participants. In addition, the measurement tool was assessed and determined to be useful in measuring intention to perform TSE. Internal consistency measures were reported as 0.672 and 0.626, both of which would have been higher with a larger sample size. While further research and analysis is recommended, this study has laid a foundation for a way to communicate with young men about their health.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

2012

Semester

Fall

Advisor

Rovito, Michael J.

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Health and Public Affairs

Degree Program

Health Professions

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Health and Public Affairs;Health and Public Affairs -- Dissertations, Academic

Format

PDF

Identifier

CFH0004320

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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Included in

Public Health Commons

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