Effects of Message Framing on Public Responses to Using Genetic Engineering to Restore American Chestnut Trees. Issue 9 (2nd September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Petit, Joshua D.; Needham, Mark D.; Howe, Glenn T.
• Is Part Of: Society and natural resources. Volume 34:Issue 9(2021)
• Page Start: 1194
• Page End: 1212
• Publication Date: 2021-09-02
• Subjects: Attitudes -- chestnut trees -- framing -- genetic engineering -- intentions -- persuasion; Natural resources -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 333.7
• DOI: 10.1080/08941920.2021.1946628
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0894-1920

Abstract

Abstract: Data from two studies examined the: (a) attitudes and behavioral intentions of the public regarding the use of genetic engineering (GE) for addressing chestnut blight and helping to restore American chestnut trees (AC); and (b) extent that these attitudes and intentions are susceptible to message framing. Data from a representative sample of the United States public ( n = 278) showed this sample felt, on average, neutral to slightly positive about using GE to restore AC trees. The majority (57%) would vote for this use of GE and were certain of these intentions. Data from an experiment (multiple treatments) conducted with other members of the public ( n = 528), however, showed that these attitudes and intentions are susceptible to persuasion, as both between- and within-subjects comparisons showed that support dropped dramatically once messages provided negative or opposing arguments. Negatively worded information coupled with messages about scientific consensus in opposition yielded the most negative responses.