These may be of help.
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&ie=ISO-8859-1&q=attitude+studies&btnG=Search&aq=f&oq=&aqi=
Can people's attitudes be "isolated" by researchers? Can an attitude's contours, influence on behavior, and strengths be accurately measured?
2 answers
It is very difficult to "isolate" attitudes and their effects on behavior. Many attitudes are not expressed — even when tested — because they are not socially acceptable or their expression might be threatening in some way. The perception of the strength of the threat will also influence the probability of expressing the attitude.
People tend to conform to social norms, even though their attitudes might contradict these norms. If you believe that you are the only person in a group that has a particular attitude, you are unlikely to express it. However, if another person in the group expresses that attitude (verbally or via behavior), you will feel freer to express your views.
Also specific attitudes are connected to a whole system of attitudes an individual has rather than being separate or distinct.
With all the complex factors effecting attitudes and their expression, it is very difficult to isolate attitudes.
I hope this helps a little more. Thanks for asking.
People tend to conform to social norms, even though their attitudes might contradict these norms. If you believe that you are the only person in a group that has a particular attitude, you are unlikely to express it. However, if another person in the group expresses that attitude (verbally or via behavior), you will feel freer to express your views.
Also specific attitudes are connected to a whole system of attitudes an individual has rather than being separate or distinct.
With all the complex factors effecting attitudes and their expression, it is very difficult to isolate attitudes.
I hope this helps a little more. Thanks for asking.
1 answer