A call for suggestions: A student and I are developing a study in which we will expose participants to information (e.g., an issue, debate or two-sided argument, court trial transcript or video) for which we may find subsequent alterations of attitude (or verdicts etc.) direction or strength. I am aware of persuasion research which has involved arguments for and against issues such as tuition increases or comprehensive exams at graduation, but we are looking for some issue on which there would be an approximately equal initial split among participants (about as many pro vs. con). As well, it would have to be an issue/stimulus for which we can reasonably expect that some may change their viewpoint or attitude strength after brief argument(s), so nothing involving strong, firmly held pre-existing attitudes (e.g., symbolic attitudes). We have considered issues such as the use of herbal supplements, alternative medicine, affirmative action, or the legalization of marijuana. A colleague (thanks Roger!) also suggested the type of stimulus used in risky shift research (e.g., given this information, which of two options do you believe John should pursue?). Does anyone know of a suitable issue/debate used in previous research (which might allow its use without extensive pilot testing)? I'd appreciate hearing any and all suggestions. Please respond off-list. If there is interest, I'll compile and post responses. Thanks in advance, Max Gwynn Maxwell Gwynn, PhD [EMAIL PROTECTED] Department of Psychology (519) 884-0710 ext 3854 Wilfrid Laurier University Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3C5 Canada
