Reference Groups, Opinion Intensity, and Public Opinion Expression

In: International journal of public opinion research, Band 9, Heft 3, S. 213-232

Abstract

Examines the role of opinion thresholds, the impact of social groups, & the influence of others' opinions in public opinion expression, testing parts of Michael A. Krassa's (1988 [see abstract 89U4089]) modification of Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann's (1974 [see abstract 77I7781]) spiral of silence theory. It is asserted that fear of isolation lowers opinion expression, & perceived dominance of opinion & fear of isolation are greater when individuals are confronted by a close reference group. Self-administered questionnaire data were obtained in 1993 from 882 Canadian adults living in or near national parks regarding endemic environmental issues. Findings supported the notion that perceived opinion dominance significantly predicted opinion expression, but only in relation to a generalized reference group. Fear of isolation significantly predicted opinion expression with respect to both generalized & specific reference groups. Results on opinion intensity & its interaction with opinion dominance & fear of isolation are discussed. 5 Tables, 2 Figures, 16 References. Adapted from the source document.