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Interpersonal Communication Development Manual:
Step by Step Instructions on How to Develop Interventions
 

The primary goal of IPC Programs is to promote behavior change by engaging target groups in activities that address barriers to adopting healthier behaviors and focus on increasing risk perception, and improving skills and self-efficacy to make healthier behavioral choices.


Chapter 1: Introduction to the Manual

Why is This Manual Important?
As different populations face various risk factors for contracting HIV, matching interventions with the needs of specific populations has proven to be a successful way to mitigate the AIDS epidemic1. Using the P Process2 program development framework as a guideline, this manual covers step by step methods for designing and implementing IPC programs that will target specific, vulnerable populations.

Interpersonal Communication (IPC) is a form of communication that takes place between a trained agent and a member or several members of a specific target population. The goal of the interaction is to support behavior change by addressing the underlying causes of risk within the specific context of the target population. The communication is most effective when enhanced by support materials such as flip charts or cue cards. Some examples of IPC include: 1. Discussion groups held 2. One-on-one talks with women regarding reproductive health in clinic settings, 3. Small group interactive workshops which focus on reducing specific risk behaviors, 4. Peer education.

 

What is Peer Education?
Peer Education (PE) is one of the most commonly used and most effective IPC strategies. In peer education programs, members of the target group are trained to act as educators for other group members. PE has been used widely with youth who are likely to be influenced by their peers. More detailed information about using peer education as an IPC strategy can be found here [PDF]. Additional peer education resources can be found here [PDF] .

1 Although this manual focuses on HIV/AIDS interventions with high risk groups, the tools and processes proposed here can be applied to a range of health issues and target groups.

2 Health Communication Partnership (December 2003). The new P-Process, steps in strategic communication. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health / Center for Communications Programs / Health Communication Partnership.


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