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Behavior change: Does distance matter?
Published in American Psychological Association Inc.
2019
Volume: 22
   
Issue: 2
Pages: 65 - 73
Abstract
Behavior change interventions attempt to change norm perceptions to bring about desirable effects. We examine whether psychological distance implicit to the information about a norm has any influence on how people perceive such information. We embed the variations on the dimensions of psychological distance (i.e., temporal, spatial, social, and hypothetical), each operating at two levels (psychologically closer vs. psychologically distant) in a statement conveying the norm. Each participant reads a version of the statement to indicate the preference to conform to the norm. In addition, the participants weigh 6 criteria on their relative importance to the indicated preference. We also assess participants' value orientation to measure whether in general they adopt individualistic versus collectivistic orientation. Psychological distance did not account for the observed variation in the preference to conform to the norm. However, weighting exercise reveals that people evaluate information regarding a norm or the behavior in question. Moreover, weights attached to behavior show a negative association with the preference to conform implying that the norm is not in good taste with their personal values and prevailing norms. The disposition toward collectivism strengthens such reasoning. To conclude, we suggest future research directions. © 2019 American Psychological Association.
About the journal
JournalData powered by TypesetPsychologist-Manager Journal
PublisherData powered by TypesetAmerican Psychological Association Inc.
ISSN10887156
Impact Factor3.170
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