In a world of information overload, stories have the power to grab our attention. They evoke emotions, relate to our experiences, transport us and make meaning by connecting seemingly random dots. Our minds aggregate those stories—from entertainment, art, traditions, our surroundings, policies and other experiences—into narratives that help us interpret the world and how it works. Narratives, in turn, shape public opinion—and so public policy as well—about urgent concerns like structural inequities in health outcomes. In short, narrative change can drive policy change.
To inform the growing field of narrative change, the Norman Lear Center’s Media Impact Project is exploring how media and entertainment narratives impact audiences’ understanding of health and well-being, disparities and solutions; and how entertainment might play a key role in shifting mindsets toward equity, justice and systemic change. Ultimately, this work aims to increase public support for more equitable policies, programs and practices. Support for this research was provided by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Read the Research Highlights Read the Infographic |
Be Afraid to Go to the Doctor
A Thematic Analysis of Systemic Barriers to Health in Film and Television Understanding and Shifting Culture of Health Mindsets (Methodology & Key Findings) Understanding and Shifting Culture of Health Mindsets (Detailed Findings) Audience Survey and COVID-19 Message Testing Media Coverage of Health Issues and Impact on Audiences Analysis of the Research Landscape Understanding Social Determinants of Health in Mass Media Opinions and Insights |
Our researchers worked with the Behavioural Insights Team (BIT) — a UK-based organization that uses insights from behavioral science to inform policy — on a COVID-19-19 message-testing study. We developed four COVID-19 stories, based on health narratives we saw in entertainment, and measured their effects on people’s perceptions of responsibility and support for systemic solutions.
Media narratives can drive and support meaningful, equitable change. |
The Norman Lear Center's Media Impact Project researches how entertainment and news influence our thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, knowledge and actions. We work with researchers, the film and TV industry, nonprofits, and news organizations, and share our research with the public. We are part of the University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.
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