The Effects of Textual Consequences and Instructions on Alcohol Warning Labels.

• In Event: Antialcohol Messages

Abstract

Aims. One way of raising awareness of the risks of alcohol use is by means of alcohol warning labels. The main purpose of this study is to explore how the warning label should be designed and, specifically, the added value of including consequences and instructions on warning labels.
Methods. Two experimental studies in different contexts (‘drunk driving’ and ‘general health’) were conducted. In these studies, 254 young adults were exposed to a warning label and completed an online questionnaire.
Findings. We found a main effect, including the consequences of drinking and driving, on the intention not to drink and drive. In addition, communicating the consequences on the label positively affected the reliability of the warning labels. This finding was consistent in both studies.
Conclusions. Although our respondents were only confronted with a specific warning label once, effects of the design of the labels were observed. These findings indicate that (i) alcohol warning labels are effective, and (ii) it matters how the label is designed.

Authors

• Jordy Gosselt, U of Twente

• Steffi Noordink, U of Twente

• Joris J. Van Hoof, U of Twente