Examining a Susceptibility Threshold for High Sensation Seekers

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session II
  In Interactive Paper Session: Information Systems Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

Studying responses to risk promotion messages can inform theory development on how fear-based messages modify risk perceptions and influence behavioral outcomes. This paper presents two experiments designed to test a “susceptibility threshold” which suggests high sensation-seekers are more likely to approach risks that are portrayed as scary, but only moderately probable (relative to high or low likelihood). Study one results indicate high and low sensation-seekers have differing perceptions of threat severity, but not susceptibility, and provide some evidence for a susceptibility threshold. Data are consistent with predictions for behavioral intention, but not for attitudes toward the behavior. Study two, which includes additional variables of interest (e.g., self-efficacy), is complete, but the data have not yet been fully analyzed. These data will be analyzed and prepared for presentation in advance of the 2016 ICA meeting. Implications for risk message design, as well as directions for future research will be addressed.

Authors

• Lindsay Neuberger, University of Central Florida

• Maria Knight Lapinski, Michigan State U

• Katelyn Grayson, Michigan State U

• Erica Landis, U of Central Florida