Healthy Skepticism Library item: 1887

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Huh J, DeLorme DE, Reid LN.
Media credibility and informativeness of direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising.
Health Mark Q 2004; 21:(3):27-61

Abstract:

In this article, we report the results of a study conducted to determine consumer perceptions of the media credibility and informativeness of direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising (DTC advertising) and to examine how those perceptions are influenced by consumer predispositions and demographic characteristics, especially consumer age. This study specifically surveyed older consumers, who are the most significant market segment for prescription drugs and particularly susceptible and vulnerable to commercial persuasion. Older consumers’ perceptions of DTC advertising were found to be neutral but their evaluation of informativeness was found to be more positive. Attitude toward DTC advertising and DTC advertising familiarity predicted perceived credibility across various media and attitude toward DTC advertising was the most prominent predictor of perceived informativeness. Age and usage of different media were also found to predict credibility and informativeness of DTC advertising in certain types of media. This study’s findings provide insight into how older consumers evaluate various DTC advertising media as an information source.

Keywords:
Advertising/methods* Aged Consumer Participation Data Collection Drug Industry/organization & administration* Female Florida Georgia Humans Information Dissemination Male Mass Media* Prescriptions, Drug* Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Trust* Truth Disclosure