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The influence of mood on the creation of compensatory health beliefs

Fritzsche, M.F. (2015) The influence of mood on the creation of compensatory health beliefs.

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Abstract:Objective: The prevalence of binge drinking among adolescents in Europe has increased although the negative consequences of alcohol are known. A possible explanation for this paradox phenomenon can be given by compensatory health beliefs (CHBs), which arise when individuals have to face a temptation between a desire and a healthy goal. In this context, compensatory health beliefs are beliefs that the negative effects of alcohol consumption can be compensated for by engaging in a healthy behavior at a later time. The temptation leads to a motivational conflict resulting in cognitive dissonance, which can be reduced by compensatory health beliefs. The aim of this study was to examine whether it is possible to manipulate the creation of compensatory health beliefs by mood, as research on this topic is still limited. Design: For the analysis data from an experimental online survey study was used. Subjects: The convenience sample consisted of 108 University students. The mean age was 23,35 years and the majority of the participants were German. Method: First the randomization between the positive and negative condition of the developed experiment was tested. Afterwards the manipulation, including the positive and negative alcohol-specific commercials, was tested whether a difference in the questionnaires was found. Furthermore a mediator analysis for mood was conducted. Results: The randomization between the positive and negative condition was successful. Evidence was found that the manipulation had effect on mood. However, the manipulation did neither affect the creation of compensatory health beliefs nor the intention. Conclusion: The experiment was effective on the positive and negative affect but did not influence the creation of compensatory health beliefs.
Item Type:Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:77 psychology
Programme:Psychology BSc (56604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/68323
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