you will deliver the presentation of the article and how it applies to changing behavior communication as we’ve discussed so far in class. You will also facilitate the class discussion on the topic during our in-class meeting during the relevant week. The instructor will be on hand to help as well as to engage the class. During your week, you will present an overview of that week’s journal article and finish with at least 3 open-ended questions to engage the class in a discussion of the topic.
Article review and analysis-describes the methods or commentary presented by the author and the results and conclusions are clearly presented. Provides commentary/analysis on how the article/findings can be used in a theoretical or real-world application
Discussion questions are open-ended and enable classmates to make a connection between this week’s topic and the article. Questions engage the class in a discussion of the research and how it applies to practice. Leader engages in discussion with classmates throughout the week
easy to understandinggood grammar
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ISSN: (Online)
Volume 1 Issue 1 (2023) pages. 1 – 13
International Journal of Public Relation and Communication
https://www.forthworthjournals.org/
doi:
Celebrity Endorsements in Public Health Campaigns
Clinton Ike
University of Lagos
Abstract
Public health campaigns are instrumental in promoting health behaviors and preventing diseases
worldwide. This study explores the impact of celebrity endorsements in public health campaigns,
focusing on the mechanisms through which celebrities influence public perceptions and behaviors
related to health issues. Drawing on Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), the study examines how celebrity
endorsements serve as powerful models for behavior change, validating SCT’s emphasis on
observational learning and self-efficacy. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, the
study showcases the effectiveness of celebrity endorsements in various campaigns, including those
targeting physical activity, healthy eating, mental health, anti-smoking initiatives, HIV/AIDS
awareness, and vaccination uptake. Findings reveal that exposure to celebrity-endorsed messages
leads to increased awareness, intention to engage in healthy behaviors, and reduced stigma associated
with certain health issues. The study emphasizes the importance of authenticity and credibility in
celebrity endorsements, providing practical guidelines for public health practitioners and campaign
designers. Furthermore, the study underscores the potential role of celebrities as agents of social
change in public health, with implications for targeted policy interventions. Overall, this research
contributes valuable insights for theory, practice, and policy in leveraging celebrity endorsements to
promote positive health behaviors and address important public health challenges.
Keywords: Celebrity Endorsements, Public Health Campaigns, Behavior Change, Social Cognitive
Theory, Health Communication, Authenticity, Credibility, Policy Implications.
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INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Public health campaigns play a crucial role in promoting health behaviors and preventing diseases
within communities. Effectiveness of these campaigns is measured by various factors including reach,
impact on behavior change, and sustained outcomes. In the United States, the “Truth” campaign aimed
at reducing youth tobacco use serves as a prominent example of successful public health campaigning
(American Legacy Foundation, 2012). Launched in 2000, this campaign utilized aggressive anti-
tobacco messaging targeting adolescents and young adults, resulting in significant declines in smoking
rates among the youth (Farrelly et al., 2009). Similarly, Canada’s “ParticipACTION” initiative
encourages physical activity and healthy living. With innovative approaches such as social marketing
and community engagement, ParticipACTION has effectively increased awareness and participation
in physical activities among Canadians (ParticipACTION, 2017).
Public health campaigns in Europe have also demonstrated effectiveness in addressing various health
issues. For instance, the “5-a-day” campaign in the United Kingdom promotes fruit and vegetable
consumption for better health outcomes. Studies have shown that this campaign has positively
influenced dietary habits among the population, leading to increased intake of fruits and vegetables
(National Health Service, 2020). Additionally, in parts of Europe, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
vaccination campaigns have been successful in increasing vaccine uptake rates among adolescents,
contributing to the prevention of HPV-related cancers (Bruggink et al., 2015).
In African countries, public health campaigns are essential for combating infectious diseases and
improving healthcare access. The “Roll Back Malaria” campaign, launched by the World Health
Organization (WHO) and partners, has been instrumental in raising awareness about malaria
prevention and control strategies across the continent (WHO, 2019). Through community-based
interventions and health education programs, this campaign has contributed to the reduction of
malaria-related morbidity and mortality in many African countries (Eisele et al., 2012).
Assessing the effectiveness of public health campaigns involves measuring their impact on target
populations. Evaluation studies utilize various methodologies including surveys, observational studies,
and randomized controlled trials to assess behavior change and health outcomes. For instance, a study
evaluating the impact of the “Veronica Buckets” handwashing campaign in Ghana found that the
intervention significantly increased handwashing behavior among school children, leading to a
reduction in diarrheal diseases (Freeman et al., 2014). Similarly, an evaluation of a nutrition education
campaign in Kenya demonstrated improvements in maternal knowledge and dietary practices,
contributing to better child nutrition outcomes (Gewa et al., 2012).
Furthermore, the sustainability of public health campaign outcomes is crucial for long-term health
impact. Follow-up studies and longitudinal assessments provide insights into the persistence of
behavior change and health improvements beyond the campaign period. In the context of HIV/AIDS
prevention campaigns in sub-Saharan Africa, longitudinal studies have shown that sustained behavior
change interventions, coupled with access to healthcare services, are essential for reducing HIV
transmission rates and improving health outcomes (UNAIDS, 2014). Similarly, long-term evaluations
of anti-smoking campaigns in Europe have demonstrated the importance of continued messaging and
support systems in maintaining reduced smoking rates (McNeill et al., 2013).
Challenges in evaluating public health campaign effectiveness include measuring outcomes in
complex and diverse populations, as well as assessing the role of external factors and contextual
influences. Methodological limitations such as self-report biases and confounding variables can affect
the validity of study findings (Wakefield et al., 2010). Additionally, resource constraints and logistical
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barriers may hinder comprehensive evaluation efforts, particularly in low-resource settings (Schaalma
et al., 2016).
Public health campaigns are instrumental in promoting health behaviors and preventing diseases
worldwide. Through innovative strategies and targeted interventions, these campaigns have
demonstrated effectiveness in addressing various health issues across different regions. Evaluation
studies play a crucial role in assessing the impact and sustainability of public health campaigns,
providing valuable insights for future program planning and implementation. However, challenges in
evaluation methodologies and resource limitations underscore the need for continued research and
investment in public health promotion efforts.
Celebrity endorsements have become a prevalent strategy in public health campaigns, leveraging the
popularity and influence of celebrities to promote health messages and behaviors. This approach
capitalizes on the “celebrity effect,” where individuals are more likely to pay attention to and trust
messages delivered by familiar and admired figures (Giles, 2016). Celebrities possess unique attributes
such as credibility, likability, and aspirational qualities that can enhance the effectiveness of health
communication (Bergkvist & Zhou, 2016). When a celebrity endorses a public health campaign, it can
lead to increased awareness, message recall, and intention to engage in healthy behaviors among the
target audience (Liu & Gao, 2015).
In recent years, numerous public health campaigns across the globe have utilized celebrity
endorsements to convey messages related to various health issues. For example, in the United States,
celebrities like Michelle Obama have supported campaigns such as “Let’s Move!” aimed at combating
childhood obesity (White House, n.d.). Michelle Obama’s involvement brought widespread attention
to the initiative, leading to increased awareness of the importance of healthy eating and physical
activity among children and families (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2013). Similarly,
in Canada, celebrities like Ryan Reynolds and Michael Bublé have endorsed mental health campaigns,
reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help (Mental Health Commission of Canada,
2019).
The effectiveness of celebrity endorsements in public health campaigns can be attributed to several
factors. Firstly, celebrities often have a broad reach across different demographics, allowing campaigns
to reach diverse audiences (Dutta-Bergman, 2019). Secondly, their association with a cause can
generate media attention, resulting in increased visibility and engagement with the campaign message
(Dermody & Hanmer-Lloyd, 2013). Thirdly, celebrities can serve as role models, inspiring individuals
to adopt healthy behaviors by showcasing their own lifestyle choices (Martínez-López et al., 2020).
This aspirational aspect of celebrity endorsement can be particularly influential, especially among
younger demographics who look up to celebrities as idols (Kim & Yoon, 2016).
However, the effectiveness of celebrity endorsements in public health campaigns is not without
challenges and considerations. One key concern is the authenticity of the endorsement, as audiences
are increasingly discerning about whether the celebrity genuinely supports the cause or is merely a
paid spokesperson (Kim & Laskowski, 2017). Authenticity plays a crucial role in shaping audience
perceptions and attitudes towards the campaign message (Roozen et al., 2015). Additionally, the choice
of celebrity must align with the target audience and the health issue being addressed. For instance,
using a sports figure to promote physical activity campaigns may be more effective than a movie star
(Dutta-Bergman, 2019).
Furthermore, the potential for celebrity scandals or controversies to impact the campaign must be
considered. If a celebrity endorser’s reputation is tarnished, it can negatively affect the credibility and
effectiveness of the campaign (Ohanian, 2011). For example, Lance Armstrong’s doping scandal had
repercussions on the Livestrong Foundation, impacting its fundraising and credibility despite the initial
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success of the yellow wristband campaign (Cornwell & Coote, 2012). Therefore, careful vetting and
monitoring of celebrity endorsers are essential to mitigate such risks and maintain campaign integrity.
Measuring the impact of celebrity endorsements on public health campaigns requires rigorous
evaluation methodologies. Surveys, focus groups, and behavior change assessments are commonly
used to gauge audience responses and behavior change following exposure to the campaign (Freberg
et al., 2011). For instance, a study evaluating a skin cancer prevention campaign featuring celebrities
found that the endorsement led to increased knowledge about sun protection and intentions to use
sunscreen among viewers (Bogart et al., 2017). These evaluation efforts are crucial for understanding
the effectiveness of the endorsement strategy and informing future campaign planning.
Celebrity endorsements can be powerful tools in public health campaigns, leveraging the influence
and appeal of celebrities to promote health messages and behavior change. The “celebrity effect” can
enhance campaign reach, visibility, and audience engagement, leading to increased awareness and
positive attitudes towards health issues. However, considerations such as authenticity, alignment with
target audience, and risk mitigation for potential scandals are essential in utilizing celebrity
endorsements effectively. Rigorous evaluation is necessary to assess the impact of celebrity
endorsements on behavior change and campaign effectiveness, providing insights for the design of
future public health initiatives.
1.2 Objective of the Study
The aim of this study was to explore the impact of celebrity endorsements in public health
campaigns.
1.3 Statement of the Problem
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are
responsible for 71% of all global deaths, with cardiovascular diseases alone accounting for 17.9 million
deaths annually (WHO, 2021). In light of these statistics, there is a pressing need for effective public
health campaigns to promote healthy behaviors and prevent NCDs. Celebrity endorsements have
emerged as a popular strategy in these campaigns, yet there remains a gap in understanding their true
impact and effectiveness. The problem statement guiding this study, “Celebrity Endorsements in
Public Health Campaigns,” is to investigate the extent to which celebrity endorsements contribute to
behavior change and improved health outcomes among target populations. Specifically, the study aims
to fill the research gap regarding the mechanisms through which celebrity endorsements influence
public perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors related to health issues. By addressing this gap, the
findings of the study will not only benefit public health practitioners and campaign designers but also
provide valuable insights for celebrities and organizations seeking to maximize the impact of their
endorsements in promoting health awareness and behavior change.
Despite the widespread use of celebrity endorsements in public health campaigns, there is limited
empirical evidence on their effectiveness in driving meaningful behavior change. Previous studies have
primarily focused on measuring the reach and awareness generated by celebrity endorsements (Bogart
et al., 2017), but there is a lack of in-depth analysis regarding the psychological and sociological
processes that underlie the influence of celebrities on health-related decisions. This study seeks to
bridge this gap by exploring the cognitive and emotional responses elicited by celebrity endorsements,
as well as the role of identification and social modeling in shaping audience attitudes and
behaviors.
Additionally, while some research has examined the impact of celebrity endorsements on specific
health behaviors such as sunscreen use (Bogart et al., 2017), there is a need for a comprehensive
investigation across a range of health issues, including physical activity, healthy eating, and mental
health.
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The beneficiaries of the findings drawn from this study are multifaceted. Firstly, public health
practitioners and campaign designers will gain valuable insights into the design and implementation
of effective celebrity-endorsed campaigns. By understanding the mechanisms through which
celebrities influence behavior change, practitioners can tailor messages and strategies to maximize
impact. Additionally, celebrities and their management teams will benefit from understanding how
their endorsements are perceived by the public and the potential role they play in promoting health
behaviors. This knowledge can guide celebrities in aligning with authentic and impactful health causes,
enhancing their credibility and influence in the public health sphere. Lastly, the general public stands
to benefit from improved public health campaigns that are more engaging, persuasive, and ultimately
lead to healthier behaviors and reduced disease burden.
The study on is rooted in the need to understand the true impact of celebrity endorsements on behavior
change and health outcomes. By addressing the research gap regarding the mechanisms through which
celebrities influence public perceptions and behaviors related to health issues, this study aims to
provide valuable insights for public health practitioners, campaign designers, celebrities, and the
general public alike. Through a comprehensive investigation into the cognitive, emotional, and social
factors at play, the findings of this study have the potential to inform the design of more effective and
impactful public health campaigns, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and reduced
prevalence of noncommunicable diseases.
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
2.1 Social Cognitive Theory
Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) was developed by Albert Bandura in the 1960s and 1970s. Social
Cognitive Theory posits that individuals learn from observing others within social contexts, and their
behaviors are influenced by cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and motivation. The theory
emphasizes the role of modeling, or observational learning, where individuals acquire new behaviors
by observing others’ actions and the consequences of those actions. SCT also highlights the importance
of self-efficacy, the belief in one’s ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish tasks. Self-
efficacy influences individuals’ choices, efforts, and perseverance in pursuing goals.
Social Cognitive Theory provides a robust framework for understanding how celebrity endorsements
influence public health campaign effectiveness. Firstly, the theory’s emphasis on modeling suggests
that when individuals observe celebrities engaging in healthy behaviors or endorsing health messages,
they are more likely to imitate those behaviors. This aligns with the study’s focus on investigating how
celebrity endorsements lead to behavior change among the target audience. For example, if a celebrity
is seen exercising or promoting healthy eating, individuals may be motivated to adopt similar behaviors
due to observational learning. Secondly, SCT’s concept of self-efficacy is particularly relevant to the
study’s objectives. The theory suggests that individuals are more likely to engage in a behavior if they
believe they can successfully perform it. In the context of celebrity endorsements, if individuals
perceive that the celebrity endorser is relatable and credible in promoting a health message, their self-
efficacy to engage in the recommended behavior may increase. For instance, a celebrity known for
their commitment to fitness endorsing a physical activity campaign may boost individuals’ confidence
in their ability to exercise regularly.
Additionally, SCT’s focus on the interaction between personal factors, environmental influences, and
behavior aligns with the study’s exploration of the multifaceted impact of celebrity endorsements. The
theory suggests that behavior change is influenced not only by individual beliefs and attitudes but also
by social and environmental factors. Therefore, the study can examine how celebrity endorsements act
as social cues that shape norms and attitudes towards health behaviors within a community or society.
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2.2 Empirical Review
This study by Smith and Johnson (2014) aimed to investigate the impact of celebrity endorsements in
a public health campaign focused on promoting physical activity among adolescents. The researchers
conducted a randomized controlled trial with two groups: one exposed to a campaign featuring a
popular athlete endorsing physical activity, and the other group exposed to a standard non-celebrity
campaign. Results showed that the group exposed to the celebrity endorsement exhibited a significant
increase in physical activity levels compared to the control group. The study suggests that celebrity
endorsements can effectively promote physical activity among adolescents, highlighting the
importance of using well-known figures as role models in public health campaigns.
In a study by Garcia, Rodriguez & Martinez (2016), the researchers aimed to explore the role of
celebrity endorsements in promoting healthy eating habits among college students. Using a mixed-
methods approach, including surveys and focus groups, the study found that exposure to a campaign
featuring a well-known chef endorsing healthy eating led to increased awareness and intention to
consume more fruits and vegetables. However, the study also revealed that the authenticity and
credibility of the celebrity endorser were crucial factors affecting participants’ attitudes. The findings
underscored the importance of aligning the celebrity endorser with the target audience and ensuring
authenticity in messaging to enhance campaign effectiveness.
The study by Lee and Kim (2018) focused on examining the impact of a celebrity-endorsed mental
health campaign on reducing stigma and increasing help-seeking behaviors among young adults. Using
pre- and post-campaign surveys, the researchers found that exposure to the campaign led to a
significant decrease in stigma associated with mental health issues and an increase in intentions to seek
help. The study highlights the potential of celebrity endorsements in addressing mental health stigma
and promoting positive attitudes towards seeking mental health support.
A study by Patel, Gupta & Sharma (2020) explored the effectiveness of a celebrity-endorsed anti-
smoking campaign among adolescents. Using a quasi-experimental design, the researchers compared
two groups: one exposed to the celebrity-endorsed campaign and another to a standard anti-smoking
campaign. The findings revealed that the celebrity endorsement significantly increased awareness of
the campaign and intention to quit smoking among adolescents. However, the study also noted that
sustained exposure and reinforcement were necessary for long-term behavior change. The study
recommends integrating celebrity endorsements with ongoing anti-smoking efforts for maximum
impact.
A qualitative study by Wang and Chang (2019) aimed to explore consumer perceptions and attitudes
towards a celebrity-endorsed HIV/AIDS awareness campaign. Through in-depth interviews, the
researchers found that the credibility and relevance of the celebrity endorser were key factors
influencing campaign effectiveness. Participants expressed trust and motivation to engage with the
campaign due to the celebrity’s personal connection to the cause. However, the study also revealed the
importance of transparency in celebrity endorsements to maintain credibility. The findings provide
insights into leveraging celebrity endorsements for sensitive health issues such as HIV/AIDS.
A cross-sectional study by Jackson and Patel (2017) investigated the influence of a celebrity-endorsed
vaccination campaign on parental attitudes and intentions towards childhood vaccinations. Surveys
conducted before and after the campaign revealed that exposure to the celebrity endorsement increased
parental acceptance and willingness to vaccinate their children. The study emphasizes the role of
celebrities in promoting vaccination uptake and suggests that strategic endorsements can address
vaccine hesitancy and misinformation.
In a study by Nguyen, Tran & Le (2021), researchers examined the effects of a celebrity-endorsed
campaign on HIV testing behavior among at-risk populations. The quasi-experimental study compared
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HIV testing rates before and after the campaign launch, finding a significant increase in testing rates
in areas with high exposure to the campaign. The study suggests that celebrity endorsements can
effectively promote HIV testing, particularly among marginalized communities. Recommendations
include ongoing celebrity involvement in HIV awareness campaigns to sustain behavior change.
2.3 Knowledge Gaps
Despite the valuable insights provided by the aforementioned studies on celebrity endorsements in
public health campaigns, several contextual, conceptual, and methodological research gaps remain,
suggesting directions for future research. One notable gap is the need for more in-depth exploration of
the long-term effects and sustainability of celebrity endorsements on behavior change. While some
studies, such as Patel et al. (2020), have shown short-term increases in awareness and intentions, there
is a lack of follow-up to assess whether these changes translate into sustained behavior change over
time. Future research could employ longitudinal designs to track the persistence of effects, shedding
light on the lasting impact of celebrity endorsements on health behaviors.
Conceptually, there is a gap in understanding the role of audience demographics and characteristics in
moderating the effectiveness of celebrity endorsements. Most studies have treated the audience as a
homogeneous group, without considering factors such as age, gender, cultural background, or prior
health beliefs. For instance, Lee and Kim (2018) focused on young adults in their study on mental
health stigma, but future research could delve deeper into how different demographic segments
respond to various types of celebrity endorsements. Exploring these nuances could help tailor
campaigns to specific audience segments, maximizing their impact and relevance.
Methodologically, there is a need for more rigorous experimental designs and control conditions to
establish causal relationships between celebrity endorsements and behavior change. While randomized
controlled trials (RCTs) have been utilized in some studies (Smith & Johnson, 2014; Patel et al., 2020),
there is variability in the methodologies across the literature. Future research could benefit from
standardized approaches to measuring outcomes, ensuring consistency and comparability across
studies. Additionally, incorporating qualitative methods alongside quantitative assessments could
provide deeper insights into the underlying mechanisms and processes through which celebrity
endorsements influence health behaviors, offering a more comprehensive understanding.
Future research on celebrity endorsements in public health campaigns should aim to address these
contextual, conceptual, and methodological gaps. Longitudinal studies can assess the sustained impact
of endorsements, considering audience segmentation to tailor messages effectively. Methodologically,
standardized approaches and mixed-method designs can provide a more robust understanding of the
mechanisms at play. By addressing these gaps, future research can contribute to the development of
more effective and targeted celebrity-endorsed public health campaigns, ultimately improving health
outcomes and behavior change on a larger scale.
RESEARCH DESIGN
The study conducted a comprehensive examination and synthesis of existing scholarly works related
to the role of agroecology in sustainable livestock practices. This multifaceted process entailed
reviewing a diverse range of academic sources, including books, journal articles, and other relevant
publications, to acquire a thorough understanding of the current state of knowledge within the field.
Through a systematic exploration of the literature, researchers gain insights into key theories,
methodologies, findings, and gaps in the existing body of knowledge, which subsequently informs the
development of the research framework and questions.
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FINDINGS
The general findings from the study reveal that celebrity endorsements can have a significant impact
on promoting health behaviors and raising awareness among target populations. Across various
campaigns focused on physical activity, healthy eating, mental health, anti-smoking efforts, HIV/AIDS
awareness, and vaccination uptake, the studies consistently show that exposure to celebrity-endorsed
messages leads to increased awareness, intention to engage in healthy behaviors, and reduced stigma
associated with certain health issues. These findings suggest that celebrities, as influential figures, can
effectively serve as role models and social cues for positive health behaviors. However, the
effectiveness of celebrity endorsements is contingent upon factors such as the credibility, authenticity,
and relevance of the celebrity endorser, as well as the alignment with the target audience. Additionally,
while short-term increases in awareness and intentions are evident, there is a need for further research
to explore the long-term sustainability of behavior change resulting from celebrity endorsements.
Overall, the study underscores the potential of celebrity endorsements in public health campaigns to
engage audiences, shift attitudes, and ultimately contribute to improved health outcomes.
CONCLUSION AND CONTRIBUTIONT TO THEORY, PRACTICE AND POLICY
5.1 Conclusion
Celebrity endorsements in public health campaigns have emerged as a powerful tool for promoting
health messages and behavior change among diverse populations. The findings from various studies
suggest that when utilized strategically, celebrity endorsements can have a significant impact on
raising awareness, increasing knowledge, and influencing attitudes towards health issues. For instance,
campaigns featuring well-known figures endorsing physical activity, healthy eating, mental health
support, anti-smoking initiatives, and HIV/AIDS awareness have shown promising results in terms of
increased intention to engage in healthy behaviors among the target audience.
One of the key conclusions drawn from these studies is the importance of authenticity and credibility
in celebrity endorsements. When celebrities are perceived as genuine advocates for the cause,
audiences are more likely to trust and resonate with the health messages they promote. This
authenticity enhances the effectiveness of the campaigns, as seen in studies where participants reported
increased motivation to adopt healthier behaviors due to the influence of the celebrity endorser.
Therefore, future public health campaigns should carefully select celebrities who align with the target
audience and have a genuine connection to the health issue being addressed.
Moreover, the studies highlight the role of celebrity endorsements in reducing stigma and normalizing
discussions around sensitive health topics such as mental health and HIV/AIDS. Celebrities who share
personal stories or experiences related to these issues can help break down barriers and encourage
individuals to seek support and treatment. This aspect is particularly crucial in addressing public health
challenges that are often surrounded by stigma and misconceptions.
However, despite the positive impact observed in these studies, there are important considerations and
challenges associated with celebrity endorsements. The potential for over-reliance on celebrity
endorsements as the sole driver of behavior change should be acknowledged. While celebrities can
serve as influential role models, effective public health campaigns require a multi-faceted approach
that includes community engagement, education, and policy changes. Additionally, the risk of
celebrity scandals or controversies impacting the credibility of campaigns underscores the need for
careful vetting and monitoring of endorsers.
Celebrity endorsements in public health campaigns hold great promise for promoting positive health
behaviors and addressing important public health issues. The studies reviewed demonstrate that when
implemented thoughtfully and authentically, celebrity endorsements can increase awareness, change
9
attitudes, and motivate individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles. Moving forward, it is essential for
public health practitioners to continue exploring the best practices and strategies for leveraging
celebrity influence, while also recognizing the limitations and ensuring a balanced approach to
campaign design and implementation.
5.2 Contributions to Theory, Practice and Policy
From a theoretical perspective, the findings of this study add depth to the Social Cognitive Theory
(SCT) proposed by Bandura (1977). SCT posits that individuals learn from observing others, and their
behaviors are influenced by cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and motivation. The
study’s findings validate SCT by demonstrating how celebrity endorsements serve as powerful models
for behavior change. By showcasing how celebrity endorsements can effectively promote healthy
behaviors, the study reinforces the notion that observational learning plays a crucial role in health
communication.
Moreover, the study contributes to the refinement of SCT by highlighting the role of self-efficacy in
the context of celebrity endorsements. Bandura (1986) emphasized that self-efficacy, or one’s belief in
their ability to succeed in specific situations, influences behavior. The study’s findings show that when
individuals see a celebrity they admire endorsing a health message, their self-efficacy to engage in the
recommended behavior increases. This aligns with SCT’s emphasis on self-efficacy as a predictor of
behavior change. Therefore, the study provides empirical evidence supporting the application of SCT
in understanding the mechanisms behind the effectiveness of celebrity endorsements in public health
campaigns.
From a practical standpoint, the study offers valuable insights for public health practitioners and
campaign designers. It provides evidence-based guidance on the strategic use of celebrity
endorsements to promote health behaviors. By demonstrating the impact of celebrity endorsements on
behavior change, the study encourages practitioners to consider employing well-known figures as
advocates for public health campaigns. This aligns with the broader trend in marketing and advertising
where celebrity endorsements are used to increase brand visibility and consumer engagement. For
example, a campaign featuring a popular athlete endorsing physical activity may resonate more with
the target audience, leading to increased engagement and participation in fitness-related activities.
Additionally, the study contributes to the development of best practices for designing and
implementing celebrity-endorsed public health campaigns. It emphasizes the importance of
authenticity and credibility in celebrity endorsements, suggesting that campaigns should carefully
select endorsers who align with the target audience and have a genuine connection to the health
message. This aligns with recommendations from marketing literature, where the match between
endorser and product/message is crucial for campaign success (Ohanian, 2011). Therefore, the study
provides practical guidelines for maximizing the impact of celebrity endorsements in promoting health
behaviors.
In terms of policy implications, the study underscores the potential role of celebrities as agents of
social change in public health. Governments and health organizations can use the findings to advocate
for the involvement of celebrities in health campaigns aimed at addressing pressing public health
issues. For instance, a campaign featuring a celebrity endorsing HIV testing could help reduce stigma
and increase testing rates, as demonstrated by Nguyen et al. (2021). Policymakers can leverage the
influence and reach of celebrities to amplify health messages and reach diverse populations.
Furthermore, the study’s emphasis on the impact of celebrity endorsements on behavior change among
specific demographic groups informs targeted policy interventions. For example, if a campaign
featuring a celebrity chef endorsing healthy eating is found to resonate particularly well with young
adults, policymakers can allocate resources to target this demographic with similar campaigns. This
10
targeted approach can lead to more efficient use of resources and greater effectiveness in promoting
healthy behaviors among different segments of the population.
Overall, the study makes significant contributions to theory, practice, and policy. It provides empirical
evidence supporting the application of Social Cognitive Theory in understanding the mechanisms
behind the effectiveness of celebrity endorsements. From a practical perspective, the study offers
guidance for public health practitioners on how to strategically use celebrity endorsements to promote
health behaviors. Lastly, from a policy standpoint, the study highlights the potential for celebrities to
serve as agents of social change in public health campaigns and informs targeted policy interventions
to reach specific demographic groups.
11
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Health Promotion Practice
March 2021 Vol. 22, No. (2) 152 –155
DOI: 10.1177/1524839920983922
Article reuse guidelines: sagepub.com/journals-permissions
© 2020 Society for Public Health Education
152
Resources, Frameworks, and Perspectives
To limit the spread of coronavirus disease 2019
(COVID-19), the Centers for Disease Control and Pre-
vention issued recommendations that individuals wear
face masks in public. Despite these recommendations,
the individual decision to adhere and wear a mask
may not be a simple decision. In this article, we examine
the decision to wear a mask from a social-ecological
perspective. Through critical analysis of societal, inter-
personal and community, and intrapersonal influ-
ences, it is clear that the decision to wear a mask is
multifaceted and influenced by constructs including
public health recommendations and government man-
dates, racism and cultural norms, geography, house-
hold income, age, and personal attitudes. Understanding
the multifactorial influences on mask wearing during
COVID-19 is crucial for informing the creation and dis-
tribution of inclusive public health messaging regarding
mask wearing now in the midst of an unprecedented
health crisis, and in future unforeseen public health
emergencies.
Keywords: theory; health promotion; crisis and
emergency risk communication for pan-
demic influenza
In light of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) issued a recommendation for indi-
viduals to wear face masks to limit viral spread (CDC,
2020a). Although not completely protective, wearing a
face mask over the mouth and nose can limit viral
transmission (CDC, 2020a), particularly among pre-
symptomatic and asymptomatic infected individuals
(Furukawa et al., 2020). Despite this CDC announce-
ment, government policies created on a state-by-state
basis have yielded conflicting mandates regarding face
mask use across the country. As of October 12, 2020, 33
states have passed mandates requiring employees and
customers wear a face mask when entering businesses
open to the public (Markowitz, 2020). Violators in the
state of Maryland, for example, are subject to a penalty
of up to 1 year in prison and a $5,000 fine (Markowitz,
2020). However, the individual decision to wear a mask
during COVID-19 is not that clear-cut, as the decision
is deeply rooted across one’s social-ecological net-
work. The social-ecological model, a fundamental
public health framework, categorically describes the
implications of an individual’s social environment,
interpersonal relationships and community setting,
and personal characteristics on health behavior deci-
sion making (CDC, 2020b). In this article, we critically
examine mask wearing during COVID-19 from a social-
ecological perspective and illustrate the complexities
of this precautionary health behavior during the
COVID-19 pandemic (Figure 1).
983922HPPXXX10.1177/1524839920983922HEALTH PROMOTION PRACTICE / MonthCasola et al. / MASK USE DURING COVID-19
research-article2020
1Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
2Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
Authors’ Note: Address correspondence to Allison R. Casola,
Department of Family and Community Medicine, Sidney Kimmel
Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 1015 Walnut Street,
Suite 401, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; e-mail: allison.casola@
jefferson.edu.
*On page 153 of this article published in the March 2021 issue,
one of the model influences in Figure 1 included a typo. This typo
was corrected in the online article on February 22, 2021.
Mask Use During COVID-19:
A Social-Ecological Analysis
Allison R. Casola, PhD, MPH, CHES1
Brianna Kunes1
Amy Cunningham, PhD, MPH1
Robert J. Motley, MD, MS1,2
https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/journals-permissions
mailto:allison.casola@jefferson.edu
mailto:allison.casola@jefferson.edu
http://crossmark.crossref.org/dialog/?doi=10.1177%2F1524839920983922&domain=pdf&date_stamp=2021-02-02
Casola et al. / MASK USE DURING COVID-19 153
>>SOCIEtAl INflUENCES
The outermost ring of the social-ecological model
encompasses a societal view on health outcomes and
decision making, such as CDC recommendations, gov-
ernment mandates, and access to reliable health care
information (CDC, 2020b). Although the CDC recom-
mends that people wear a face mask in public, it is up
to individual states to enforce the order. Inconsistencies
among state mandates, ordered from the unmasked
mouths of politicians, have split public opinion and
cooperation on mask wearing. Without uniform lead-
ership and cross-state legislation, mask wearing has
become a partisan issue, with influential leaders able to
use executive privilege as an excuse for going unmasked
and neglecting CDC recommendations (Armus, 2020;
Liptak, 2020). Additionally, media outlets have pro-
vided conflicting information on proper COVID-19 pre-
cautions. Without evidence, some popular news outlets
have suggested that masks increase one’s chance of infec-
tion and recommend against buying or wearing masks
completely; even the World Health Organization omit-
ted recommendations that healthy people wear masks
in an early COVID-19 guide (Haelle, 2020). The issue
of conflicting information is further exacerbated by the
general public’s sparse public health literacy and has
contributed to distribution of incorrect messaging and
general confusion among the public.
The decision to wear a mask can also be attributed
to racism and race relations throughout the country.
Members of minority racial groups, particularly Black
and Hispanic men, may be resistant to mandates requir-
ing them to wear a mask in public, given racial stigmas
and societal inequities that continue to criminalize them
based on their appearances (Aviles, 2020). For these
individuals, covering their faces with a mask, or worse,
a make-shift bandana mask, could intensify already
deadly racial profiling situations.
Finally, cultural norms may influence mask wearing.
In the United States and western Europe, individual-
ism endorses self-expression and personal preferences
(Triandis, 1995), making individuals less likely to abide
by mask recommendations to protect others. Meanwhile,
many Asian countries foster a sense of collectivism, val-
uing individuals as parts of a whole (Triandis, 1995).
People belonging to a collectivist culture are seemingly
more likely to wear masks in public, as their sense of
interdependence may motivate them to safeguard those
around them.
Interpersonal / Community
Societal
Individual
Public health recommendations
Government mandates
Media messaging
Racism
Cultural norms
Geography
Household income
Public transportation restrictions
Workplace requirements
Age
Perceived susceptibility
Perceived importance
Personal fear
Personal attitudes
Gender norms
fIGURE 1 Social-Ecological Model, Applied to Mask Wearing During the Coronavirus Disease 2019
Note. The model illustrates the complexities of health behaviors and decision making across societal, interpersonal, community, and
individual influences.
154 HEALTH PROMOTION PRACTICE / March 2021
>> INtERPERSONAl AND COMMUNIty
INflUENCES
The next level of the social-ecological model includes
interpersonal influences within one’s immediate envi-
ronment, such as their community and social networks,
that affect their decision to wear a mask (CDC, 2020b).
Although more relevant earlier in the pandemic, mask
wearing may not be perceived as that important in many
rural communities in the United States, as COVID-19 had
not yet wreaked the same level of destruction in these
areas compared to urban communities (Fisher et al.,
2020). It is possible that individuals in rural communities
may not even know a single person with the virus (Fisher
et al., 2020) and feel that mask mandates are unnecessary,
burdensome, or simply an overreaction.
However, the decision to wear a mask could simply
be a result of access, fiscally and tangibly. With 11.8%
of American households living under the poverty line,
it may not be possible to purchase a mask in person or
online (Fan et al., 2020). It is a privilege to be able to
isolate at home until a mask is delivered, and it is a privi-
lege to be able to safely wash a mask or have multiple
masks for everyone in the household. Without access
to masks, underprivileged individuals may suffer from
further disadvantages. In some cities, masks are required
to use public transportation, creating barriers for peo-
ple commuting to work or accessing essential goods
and health care services if they do not have easy access
to masks. Additionally, businesses may require their
employees to wear masks, potentially limiting one’s job
opportunities in an already strained economic climate
(Fan et al., 2020).
>> INtRAPERSONAl INflUENCES
Public compliance regarding mask wearing does not
rely solely on one’s social and interpersonal relation-
ships but also on individual characteristics and personal
attitudes—the innermost level of the social-ecological
model (CDC, 2020b). Early in the pandemic, COVID-19
was labeled as a virus that would disproportionately
affect the elderly, resulting in low levels of perceived
susceptibility, feelings of naive invincibility, and lim-
ited uptake in mask wearing among young and middle-
aged adults. Similarly, stigma regarding gender norms
may influence mask wearing, as men are less likely to
believe the virus will seriously affect them and report
feelings of weakness and shame when wearing a mask
(Boskovich, 2020).
Others may decide not to wear a mask because they
may not understand the importance of doing so, because
they may not know how to properly wear a mask, or out
of concern of being judged. Fear of being labeled too
reactionary toward COVID-19, and a general sense of
hyper self-awareness while wearing a mask, may also
contribute to one’s decision to leave their mask at home.
Yet for some, declining to wear a mask could symbolize
their right to exercise their personal liberties as a United
States citizen as the refusal to wear a mask in public may
suggest one’s support of reopening the country, getting
Americans back to work, and a general sense of mis-
guided “patriotism” (Fisher et al., 2020).
>> IMPlICAtIONS fOR PRACtICE AND
fUtURE EffORtS
Through a social-ecological lens, mask wearing dur-
ing COVID-19 is influenced by societal structure, com-
munity norms, and individual characteristics. However,
this analysis is only the beginning. As we continue
through this unprecedented pandemic, it is important
to acknowledge and comprehend the intricacies of mask
wearing across one’s social-ecological network, and to
apply these theoretical constructs when conceptualiz-
ing and disseminating public health messaging to pro-
mote mask wearing and other COVID-19 precautionary
measures.
So, where do we go from here? We need to keep
working together to develop factual, tailored health
communication messaging related to mask wearing
and apply theoretical foundations of health behavior to
our information guides and marketing campaigns. To
promote a singular message—wear a mask—among a
diverse American population, future resources should
be congruent and take into consideration the social-
ecological attributes influencing the intended audience.
Depending on the population, these attributes may be
social, such as cultural norms that could be influenced
by media messaging and role-modeling by socially influ-
ential individuals; interpersonal and community, such
as geographic and financial barriers to mask access that
could be addressed through awareness of free and low-
cost mask resources; individual, such as encouragement
to reduce fear and anxiety surrounding mask-wearing;
or multilevel interventions addressing one or more rings
of the social-ecological model. Our messaging should
reflect those needs. But most important, we need to
openly talk about how mask wearing is much more than
donning a mask, piece of fabric, bandana, or scarf around
one’s face.
ORCID iD
Allison R. Casola https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7836-3774
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7836-3774
Casola et al. / MASK USE DURING COVID-19 155
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