The readability and suitability of sexual health promotion leaflets.

Patient Educ Couns · 2016

other · Level V

Where this comes from

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the readability and suitability of sexual health promotion leaflets. METHOD: Application of SMOG, FRY and SAM tests to assess the readability and suitability of a selection of sexual health leaflets. RESULTS: SMOG and FRY scores illustrate an average reading level of grade 9. SAM scores indicate that 59% of leaflets are superior in design and 41% are average in design. Leaflets generally perform well in the categories of content, literacy demand, typography and layout. They perform poorly in use of graphics, learning stimulation/motivation and cultural appropriateness. CONCLUSION: Sexual health leaflets have a reading level that is too high. Leaflets perform well on the suitability scores indicating they are reasonably suitable. There are a number of areas where sexual health leaflets could improve their design. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Numerous practical techniques are suggested for improving the readability and suitability of sexual health leaflets.