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.
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.