The functions of affect in health communications and in the construction of health preferences
We examine potential roles of 4 functions of affect in health communication and the construction of health preferences. The roles of these 4 functions (affect as information, as a spotlight, as a motivator, and as common currency) are illustrated in the area of cancer screening and treatment decision making. We demonstrate that experienced affect influences information processes, judgments, and decisions. We relate the functions to a self-regulation approach and examine factors that may influence the weight of cognitive versus affective processing of information. Affect's role in health communication is likely to be nuanced, and it deserves careful empirical study of its effects on patients' well-being. © 2006 International Communication Association.
Duke Scholars
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- Communication & Media Studies
- 4701 Communication and media studies
- 2001 Communication and Media Studies
- 1903 Journalism and Professional Writing
- 1902 Film, Television and Digital Media
Citation
Published In
DOI
EISSN
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Related Subject Headings
- Communication & Media Studies
- 4701 Communication and media studies
- 2001 Communication and Media Studies
- 1903 Journalism and Professional Writing
- 1902 Film, Television and Digital Media