A Cross-Cultural Comparison of the Effects of Source Credibility on Attitudes and Behavioral Intentions

Abstract

In this article, we investigated (a) whether the commonly reported 3 dimensions of source credibility (expertise, trustworthiness, and attractiveness) are applicable to both Americans and Koreans, and (b) which of those 3 dimensions exerted more influence on the dependent variables in each country. Findings suggest that the dimensionality of source credibility was remarkably similar between the 2 samples. The influence of 3 source credibility dimensions varied by the dependent variables. Attractiveness, expertise, and trustworthiness were equally important to purchase intentions. All 3 dimensions affected involvement with the advertisement message equally. Only trustworthiness had a significant impact on attitude toward brand and brand beliefs. In terms of attitude toward the advertisement, perceived attractiveness of the endorser was more important than expertise and trustworthiness.