The Role of Storytelling in Health Communication: A Multilingual Perspective

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.63345/ijrsml.v13.i8.5

Prof. Dr. Sanjay Kumar Bahl

Indus Intenational University

Haroli,  Una, Himachal Pradesh – 174301, India

Abstract

Storytelling has emerged as a powerful tool in health communication, enabling complex medical information to be conveyed in an accessible, emotionally resonant manner. In multilingual contexts, where linguistic diversity poses challenges to message comprehension and cultural relevance, narrative approaches can bridge gaps by tailoring stories to audience language preferences and cultural frameworks. This manuscript examines the role of storytelling in health communication from a multilingual perspective, exploring how narrative strategies enhance engagement, trust, recall, and behavior change across diverse linguistic communities. Through a mixed‑methods survey of 500 participants representing five language groups (English, Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, and Swahili), coupled with content analysis of ten successful health campaigns, we assess narrative elements (plot structure, character identification, cultural references) and delivery channels (video, radio, print, social media). Results indicate that multilingual narratives significantly increase message understanding (mean comprehension score: 87%), emotional engagement (mean engagement rating: 4.3/5), and reported intention to act (68% of respondents), compared to non‑narrative informational approaches. Story elements that aligned with cultural values—such as family cohesion, spiritual beliefs, and community norms—proved particularly effective.

Building on these findings, we delve deeper into the mechanisms driving narrative efficacy, identifying key factors such as emotional transportation, culturally congruent character arcs, and the use of indigenous metaphors that resonate with each target audience. Our analysis also uncovers the importance of iterative feedback loops with community stakeholders to co‑design and refine story content, ensuring authenticity and avoiding cultural misinterpretations. We explore how varying media ecologies—ranging from low‑bandwidth radio broadcasts in rural regions to interactive social media platforms in urban centers—influence narrative reception and sharing behaviors. Finally, we articulate a set of practical guidelines for public health practitioners, emphasizing the integration of storytelling into existing health promotion frameworks, allocation of resources for multilingual production, and metrics for evaluating long‑term impact. By offering both empirical evidence and actionable recommendations, this manuscript contributes a robust foundation for leveraging storytelling as a strategic intervention in multilingual health communication initiatives.

Keywords

Storytelling; health communication; multilingual narratives; cultural adaptation; behavior change

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