Research Themes
Entertainment as a Vehicle for Education
Informed by social cognitive and narrative persuasion theories, entertainment media that follows a scientific theory of change can effectively inform audiences, effect attitudes, and change behaviors across cultures and contexts.
Social Media Misinformation and its Correction
Unverified information on social media has stark consequences for health, civic integrity, and societal well-being. An understanding of why people believe in misinformation, what misinformation looks like, and how bad actors spread fake news is vital to creating effective inoculations and post-hoc corrections.
Messaging for Social and Behavioral Change
Social scientists have identified a range of source features and message attributes that are implicated in persuasion. These tools, such as emotion appeals, source credibility factors, and framing effects can be leveraged in public messaging to propel people towards beneficial, pro-social behaviors.