Examining the Link Between Information Processing and Preventive Behavior in the Risk Information-Seeking and Processing (RISP) Model: A Panel Study

Authors

• Timothy K.F. Fung, Hong Kong Baptist University
• Ho Man Leung, Hong Kong Baptist University
• Po Yan Lai, Hong Kong Baptist University
• Robert J. Griffin, Marquette UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2025

Publisher

SAGE

Source Publication

Science Communication

Source ISSN

1075-5470

Original Item ID

DOI: 10.1177/10755470241277197

Abstract

The Risk Information-Seeking and Processing (RISP) model postulates that individuals who process risk information systematically are likely to hold stronger attitudes toward preventive behavior than those who process information heuristically. Therefore, individuals’ attitudes toward risk preventive behavior developed or changed through systematic processing are likely to be more persistent over time than those whose attitudes are based on heuristic processing. To examine this proposition, we conducted to a two-wave panel study in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings supported the proposition that processing influenced attitude strength, which influenced individuals’ attitude toward behavior a year later. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.

Comments

Science Communication, Vol. 47, No. 2 (April 2025): 147-181. DOI.

Recommended Citation

Fung, Timothy K.F.; Leung, Ho Man; Lai, Po Yan; and Griffin, Robert J., "Examining the Link Between Information Processing and Preventive Behavior in the Risk Information-Seeking and Processing (RISP) Model: A Panel Study" (2025). College of Communication Faculty Research and Publications. 721.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/comm_fac/721