Can Knowledge Counteract Conflict? A Partial Replication Study of PFAS Science Communication.

Abstract

On the basis of two surveys embedded with a 3 × 2 full-factorial experiment, we examine whether exposing participants to a message about the process of scientific inquiry prepares them to deal with conflicting risk information more effectively. Study 1 suggests initial evidence that, as compared to a testimonial, analogical and inoculation appeals increased trust in science when followed by consistent information. Conflicting information, conversely, was detrimental to risk perception, especially when paired with an inoculation appeal. These findings were not replicated in Study 2. Nevertheless, across both studies, trust in science, message credibility, risk perception, and self-efficacy were related to policy support and behavioral intention, whereas fatalism exercised an indirect effect through risk perception and self-efficacy. Findings highlight the importance of consistent messaging when communicating an emergent environmental health risk-here, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-while suggesting challenges in fostering a scientific mindset.