Abstract
THE Health Show was a joint BBC/HEA television programme which aimed to provide information and motivate viewers to adopt healthier lifestyles by making simple behavioural changes. Research, con ducted among a sample drawn from the half million people who requested a copy of an information book let promoted during the programme, showed that the venture had been a success in terms of the ob jectives set out in Table 1. The 'fly on the wall' mech anism where real families attempted to follow a healthier lifestyle appeared to be the most popular element of the show and would seem to offer scope for further exploitation. The information given out was valued for being sensible and uncontroversial and the 'telethon' format provoked enthusiasm for behavioural change. Many of those who sent off for the booklet claimed that The Health Show had en couraged them to make changes to their behaviour, though caution is required in interpreting this find ing as requesters of the guide were characterised by above average awareness and interest in health issues.
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