Examining the Effects of Testimonials on Cancer Screening Decisions: Does Identity or Vividness Matter?

Presentation Type

Poster/Portfolio

Presenter Major(s)

Psychology

Mentor Information

Amanda Dillard

Department

Psychology

Location

Henry Hall Atrium 52

Start Date

11-4-2012 9:00 AM

Keywords

Health, Social Science

Abstract

Research supports the use of testimonials to communicate health information and encourage health behavior change, but few studies have examined what attributes of testimonials make them persuasive and meaningful. In this study, older adults who were due for colorectal cancer screening read a screening message about colon cancer that included a testimonial from a similar other (matched to each participant's age, gender, and race) who had previously made a screening decision. We examined associations between participants' perceptions of the testimonial, such as identification with the character and vividness of the experience, and their intentions to have a screening test in the next year. We also examined associations between participants' perceived identity and vividness and their knowledge and attitude toward screening.

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Apr 11th, 9:00 AM

Examining the Effects of Testimonials on Cancer Screening Decisions: Does Identity or Vividness Matter?

Henry Hall Atrium 52

Research supports the use of testimonials to communicate health information and encourage health behavior change, but few studies have examined what attributes of testimonials make them persuasive and meaningful. In this study, older adults who were due for colorectal cancer screening read a screening message about colon cancer that included a testimonial from a similar other (matched to each participant's age, gender, and race) who had previously made a screening decision. We examined associations between participants' perceptions of the testimonial, such as identification with the character and vividness of the experience, and their intentions to have a screening test in the next year. We also examined associations between participants' perceived identity and vividness and their knowledge and attitude toward screening.