What is a "public service announcement" (PSA)?

A public service announcement (PSA) is a message specifically designed to inform and educate the public about significant issues that affect community well-being. These announcements often address topics such as health, safety, the environment, and social issues, aiming to raise awareness and prompt action among the audience. Unlike typical advertisements, which are primarily focused on promoting products or services for profit, PSAs are usually funded by government agencies or non-profit organizations with the intent of serving the public good. The goal is to influence public attitudes and behaviors, making them a vital tool in public communication campaigns that seek to address and solve critical societal issues.

This context clarifies why options that suggest commercial advertising or promotional tools for businesses don't align with the definition of a PSA, which centers its mission on community education rather than profit-oriented marketing. Consequently, the essence of a PSA lies in its role as a conduit for information that encourages informed decision-making among the public.