BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE COMMUNICATION

Information Education Communication can be defined as systematic approach which attempt to change the unhealthy behavioral practices of the community to healthy behavioral practice

Behavioral change communication is a strategic use of communication approaches to promote changes in knowledge, attitude, norms, beliefs and behaviors of the community.

Community has been defined as a group a group of people living together within a specified geographical boundary having some commonalities, forming a network of social relationships, people who share common interests and having the feeling they belong together form a community. They share common values, common historical background and accept certain form of behavior as normal for all members.

Community involvement is the process of getting community members to participate in identifying their own health and health related needs, plan and proffer possible solution through active participation.

Community Participation is a process in which individuals and families assume responsibilities for their own health and welfare and that of their community development and develop the capacity to contribute adequately in problem solving.

Characteristics of a Community

1. May consist of many sub-groups.

2. Usually has a leader and may also have many formal and informal leaders.

3. It is not always homogenous in that within a community many different views, languages, ideas and approach to life are often present.

4. It may be as small as a settlement or as big as a local government area or even more. It could be a village, cooperative, religious or political party based community.