Siriporn Toonsiri. The representation of "dietary supplement products" in an urban community, Chonburi province. Doctoral Degree(Medical and Health Social Sciences). Mahidol University. : Mahidol University, 2005.
The representation of "dietary supplement products" in an urban community, Chonburi province
Abstract:
This study investigated the representation of dietary supplement products and their effect on
the body and self-identity, as well as the dietary supplement product spread in an urban community.
The investigation was undertaken in an area under the municipality of Nong Tumlung Panthong
District, Chonburi Province Thailand. The data was collected from in-depth interviews, and
participation and non-participation observation of 21 informants. The information obtained was
analyzed by using textual analysis and semiological analysis.
As a result of the investigation it was possible to formulate 2 uses of dietary supplement
products : 1) they act as an active health agent. 2) they act as a sustenance health agent. The use is
determined by advertisements, direct sales, medical professionals and peers in the community. The
concept and image of products is related to the body and self-identity through, for example, body
maintenance, balancing the health of the body, youth and vitality, images of self-identity, gratefulness,
and order and discipline. The models of dietary supplement products, in the urban community, were
constructionist: in other words, consumers in the community constructed their idea on use via
language, advertisements and various others. Repeated use of products strengthened and expanded
natural and social relationships in the consumer group, so, use of the products was a mechanism that
created social separation, and classification.
The government, the medical council, as well as the Consumer Protection Office should
regulate and examine dietary supplement products as well as educate people on the cost and quality of
products, and encourage an understanding of the hyperreality of advertisements. A development of
alternative health care in line with social-cultural contexts in the community should be developed. The
Consumer Protection Office should examine product advertisements, manufacturing, standard of
products and should host conferences for the benefit of consumers. Furthermore, the government
should also protect consumers and develop advice on the safe consumption of dietary supplement
products in the future