Explaining the Dimensions and Components of Media Health Literacy with a Critical Approach: a grouded theory

Given the importance of health literacy and the role of media in shaping adolescents’ health, this study aimed to identify the dimensions and components of media health literacy with a critical approach among adolescents.

This was a qualitative study conducted on the basis of the grounded theory. Participants in the study included 12 experts in media literacy and health literacy who were selected by purposeful sampling. The data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using MAXQDA2018 software in three stages of open, axial and selective coding. Data validation was performed using the verification method by the participants.

In all six dimensions and components of media health literacy emerged from analysis including: ‘development of media health literacy with a critical approach (pivotal phenomenon)’, ‘causal conditions’, ‘contextual conditions’, ‘strategies’, ‘confounding factors’ and ‘results and outcomes ‘.

The need for integrated and systematic attention to all aspects of critical health media literacy is essential to promote balanced, coherent, integrated and effective media health information.