An Application of a Communication Concept for Reducing Energy Drink among Male Agriculturist at Huai Rat District, Buri Ram Province

Abstract

Certain behavior is the main cause of both long and short term health problems. This includes
over consumption of energy drink which is rich with stimulants. The propaganda could tempt
drinkers to become addicts. This study was conducted among male agriculturists aged 15 years and
above at Huai Rat District, Buri Ram Province. The purpose of this quasi-experimental research
was to study the knowledge level, attitudes and practices among energy drink consumers, using the
application of Berlo’s communication model, from February 2010 to April 2010, the study subjects
were 120 male agriculturists. They were divided into two groups; 60 in the experimental group and
60 in the comparison group. The Berlo’s model was applied for training and home visits. The data
were collected before and after the experiment by interview questionnaires. Data were analyzed
and presented in terms of frequencies percentages, mean and standard deviation while paired t-test,
independent t-test were employed in order to establish differences of results.
The results revealed that after receiving the intervention, the experimental group had been
more knowledge, able improved attitudes and practices better than before the interventions and
scored higher than the comparison group (p < 0.001).
In conclusion, this research findings showed the application of Berlo’s communication concept
on the health education program could reduce energy drink consumption among male agriculturists.
So this education program can be implemented in areas with similar problems to reduce
drinker’s health problems.
Key words: communication concept, energy drink, male agriculturist