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Message Source Credibility and E-Cigarette Harm Perceptions among Young Adults

Author

Listed:
  • Donghee N. Lee

    (Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA)

  • Elise M. Stevens

    (Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA)

Abstract

This study examined the effect of message source credibility on e-cigarette harm perceptions among U.S. young adults. An online experimental study was conducted where young adults ( n = 302, Mage = 23.7) were randomized to an e-cigarette public health education message from an expert or a peer young adult. Then, participants answered questions about their perceptions about the message source and e-cigarettes. Results suggest that young adults rated experts as a more credible source (vs. peer) (b = −0.39, SE = 0.15, 95% CI [−0.67, −0.10], p < 0.01). Young adults reported greater perceived credibility of the expert message (vs. peer), which was associated with increased e-cigarette harm perceptions. Increased perceived source credibility mediated the association of increased e-cigarette absolute harm perceptions from viewing an expert message (b = −0.11, SE = 0.04, 95% CI: −0.20, −0.02). Source credibility should be considered when designing e-cigarette education messages for young adults.

Suggested Citation

  • Donghee N. Lee & Elise M. Stevens, 2022. "Message Source Credibility and E-Cigarette Harm Perceptions among Young Adults," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(15), pages 1-12, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:15:p:9123-:d:872189
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jacob A. Rohde & Seth M. Noar & Casey Horvitz & Allison J. Lazard & Jennifer Cornacchione Ross & Erin L. Sutfin, 2018. "The Role of Knowledge and Risk Beliefs in Adolescent E-Cigarette Use: A Pilot Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 15(4), pages 1-9, April.
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