The effects of message sidedness and evidence on inoculation against counterpersuasion in small group communication

Abstract

This study tested the generalizability of previous research concerning inoculation against counterpersuasion when the counterpersuasive influence is exerted in a small group communication context. Earlier findings indicated that a two‐sided message which includes refutation of opposing positions or which includes documented supporting material tends to inoculate receivers against counterpersuasion in a confrontation setting. Results indicated that a two‐sided message produced more attitude change after counterpersuasion than did a one‐sided message. Evidence effects in the present study were significant at only the .10 level, but in the hypothesized direction. Message sidedness had no significant effect on perceived source credibility. Inclusion of evidence significantly increased perceived source credibility on the authoritativeness dimension.