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One size does not fit all: The case for tailoring print materials

  • Special Section on Tailored Print Communication
  • Published:
Annals of Behavioral Medicine

Abstract

Printed health education materials frequently consist of mass-produced brochures, booklets, or pamphlets designed for a general population audience. Although this one-size-fits-all approach might be appropriate under certain circumstances and even produce small changes at relatively modest costs, it cannot address the unique needs, interests, and concerns of different individuals. With the advent and dissemination of new communication technologies, our ability to collect information from individuals and provide feedback tailored to the specific information cellected is not only possible, but practical. The purpose of this article is to: (a) distinguish between tailored print communication and other common communication-based approaches to health education and behavior change; (b) present a theoretical and public health rationale for tailoring health information; and (c) describe the steps involved in creating and deliverin tailored print communication programs. Studies suggest computer tailoring is a promising strategy for health education and behavior change. Practitioners and researchers should understand the approach and consider the possibilities it presents for enhancing their work in disease prevention.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Health Communication Research Laboratory, Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, Saint Louis University, 321 Spring Avenue, 63108, St. Louis, MO

    Matthew W. Kreuter Ph.D., M.P.H.

  2. University of Michigan, Michigan, USA

    Victor J. Strecher Ph.D., M.P.H.

Authors
  1. Matthew W. Kreuter Ph.D., M.P.H.
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  2. Victor J. Strecher Ph.D., M.P.H.
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  3. Bernard Glassman M.A.T.
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Additional information

National Cancer Institute

The authors would like to thank Drs. David Abrams, William Rakowski, Barbara Rimer, Darcell Scharff, and Celette Skinner for their assistance in reviewing earlier drafts of the manuscript.

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Kreuter, M.W., Strecher, V.J. & Glassman, B. One size does not fit all: The case for tailoring print materials. ann. behav. med. 21, 276–283 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02895958

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