Reference no: EM132661756
Planned Behavior
Discussion 1: The theory of planned behavior suggests that behavioral attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control influence intention, which consequently influences behavior. However, many behaviors are spontaneous and are not nicely captured by this theory. Discuss the difference between planned behavior and spontaneous behavior and the link between attitudes and behavior. What examples can you think of that pertain to college students and the concepts of planned behavior, intent, and motivation (procrastination)?
Attitude Inoculation
Discussion 2: Like with vaccines, persuasive messages can be inoculated. Discuss how exposing people to weaker arguments can help with resistance to stronger arguments they encounter later. Be sure to define the term argument in the social psychological sense in your discussion. What current events can we apply this concept?
Balance Theory
Discussion 3: Balance theory suggests that we want consistency between our thoughts. So, for example, if you have a positive association between one person (person X), and this person has a positive association with something else (item Y), you too will want to have a positive association with this other thing (item Y). Discuss how this relates to advertisers who try to get you to like a product by associating it with someone or something else that you already like.
Is Persuasion Bad?
Discussion 4: Discuss how persuasion often has negative connotations-for example, advertising trying to sell products or leaders trying to convince people to follow them against their best interests. However, persuasion can also be good. For example, psychotherapists try to convince their clients of a healthier way of perceiving the world, and parents try to persuade their children of living a life they think is right. Discuss the good and bad of persuasion.