Emulating a Better Tomorrow

Researchers have been telling us for years that kids, and adults, too, see messages in the media and may adopt similar behaviors. From copying the hairstyle of a popular actress to mimicking the dialogue from a gritty crime show, often we reflect what we see and hear in the media as we go about our daily lives.

The Population Media Center (PMC) is currently seeking to raise awareness about the most pressing problems in the countries where it operates, which range from Vietnam to Rwanda to Mexico. The center creates TV and radio programs starring characters struggling with real-life issues like family planning, AIDS and domestic abuse. PMC scriptwriters hope that the responses and choices of the characters will improve - and even save - the lives of some members of the audience.

Bill Ryerson, PMC president, and scriptwriter Virginia Carter tell Mike Cuthbert how they develop and design the media programs.