Selective Perceptions of Hydraulic Fracturing: The Role of Policy Support, Message Evaluation, and Economic/Environmental Frames

• In Event: Public Understanding and Perceptions of Environmental Issues

Abstract

Hydraulic fracturing has become a controversial topic in American energy development debate with proponents largely supporting the issue due to potential economic gains and opponents citing potential detriments to environmental and public health. Relatively little research to date has explored the social dimensions (e.g., public perceptions) of hydraulic fracturing. This study examines public interpretation of hydraulic fracturing media content (news images) presenting either an economic benefit or environmental risk frame and whether individuals’ support for hydraulic fracturing influences perceptions and evaluations of the mediated content. Moreover, this study identifies predictors of hydraulic fracturing support, economic perspectives of hydraulic fracturing and environmental perspectives of the issue. Results indicate that visual framing choices in images and individuals’ level of support or opposition of hydraulic fracturing interact to determine how images are interpreted.

Authors

• Melanie A. Sarge, Texas Tech U

• Matthew S. VanDyke, Texas Tech University

• Andy J King, Texas Tech U

• Erik P. Bucy, Texas Tech U

• Shawna R White, Texas Tech U