Experimental Investigation of Source Effects on Psychological Reactance to Persuasive Health Appeals
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2021-07-02
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en
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Abstract
Sixty-five university students (51 female, 14 male) responded to the current study intending to
advance research on psychological reactance and source effects using a 2x2 (freedom threat: low
vs. high x source: student association vs. corporation) within-subjects experiment, investigating
the role of perceived similarity and trust in sources on freedom threat and psychological reactance
in response to persuasive health appeals. While manipulations of freedom threat have been
successful, experiences of reactance were negligeable. One-sentence vignettes used to introduce
sources did not promote greater levels of perceived similarity towards student associations
compared to corporations. For corporations issuing highly threatening health appeals, being
perceived as similar to recipients buffered experiences of freedom threat and supported the
translation of attitudes into behavioral intentions. For both student associations and corporations,
being trusted shielded against experiences of freedom threat in response to highly threatening
health appeals. Shortcomings and considerations for researchers and communicators are discussed.
Keywords: psychological reactance, source effects, similarity, trust, persuasive health
communication
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Faculteit der Sociale Wetenschappen