Climate of silence: Pluralistic ignorance as a barrier to climate change discussion. (September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Geiger, Nathaniel; Swim, Janet K.
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental psychology. Volume 47(2016)
• Page Start: 79
• Page End: 90
• Publication Date: 2016-09
• Subjects: Climate change -- Pluralistic ignorance -- Discussion -- Impression management -- Stereotype content model; Environmental psychology -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; 155.905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2016.05.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0272-4944

Abstract

Abstract: Despite the importance of interpersonal public communication about climate change, most citizens rarely discuss the topic. In two studies, we find that inaccurate perceptions of others' opinions (i.e. pluralistic ignorance ) contribute to self-silencing among those concerned about climate change. Study 1 illustrates that those who are aware of others' concern about climate change report greater willingness to discuss the issue than those with inaccurate perceptions of others' opinions. Study 2 demonstrates that correcting pluralistic ignorance increases concerned participants' willingness to discuss climate change. In both studies, pluralistic ignorance leads to self-silencing because perceptions that others do not share one's opinion are associated with expecting to be perceived as less competent in a conversation about climate change. In contrast to previous research on confronting prejudice, in the present research expectations about being disliked did not explain self-silencing. We discuss the implications for self-silencing and promoting interpersonal communication about climate change. Highlights: Examined the link between pluralistic ignorance on climate change and public silence. Perceptions of holding a minority opinion on climate change led to self-silencing. This effect was explained by expectations of appearing incompetent. These effect held for participants on both ends of the opinion spectrum.