Pro-social Message Design: A Theoretical Model

• In Event: Advances in Communication Theory

Abstract

Pro-social messages function to influence, manage, and modify the psychological and emotional states of others experiencing psychological and emotional distress. Literature on social judgment theory, attitude functions theory, and message-based theories are synthesized. Combined, this theoretical model helps to advance our understanding of the role that message structures play in altering another’s psychological, emotional, and physical well being, as well as advancing our understanding of how pro-social messages affect relational satisfaction, commitment, and affection.

Author

• Colleen Klatt, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities