Suchergebnisse

A test of two different versions of the "persistence hypothesis" concerning the origins of social tolerance -- (1) a "traditional" view that preadult political socialization leaves attitudinal residues that persist through adulthood, & (2) a "revisionist" view that preadult learning is supplemented by socialization that continues into adulthood -- against a "lifelong openness" view that attitudes are quite open to change in adulthood. Effects of environmental change on racial tolerance, attitudes toward women's place in society, & acceptance of sexual practices are examined, using data from 6 cross-sectional General Social Surveys (1972-1977, with a maximum of 6,021 available cases). It is found that adult levels of social tolerance are influenced by both preadult & early adult attitudinal environments, supporting the persistence hypothesis, especially in its revisionist version. Microenvironment tolerance norms typically show great continuity across most individuals' lifespans, minimizing the clash of adult environments with preadult socialization. In the unusual cases when the two environments do conflict, both significantly influence the individual's level of social tolerance. Persistence may thus be due both to the lasting power of early experience & to environmental continuity through the lifespan. 4 Tables, 2 Figures, 1 Appendix, 40 References. Modified HA

Data on selective exposure to persuasive COMM's are critically reviewed in terms of the following hyp's: (1) COMM's mainly reach those who already agree with the position advocated; (2) people prefer supportive to nonsupportive information; (3) selectivity increases with greater cognitive dissonance; & (4) selectivity declines with greater confidence in one's own opinion. Most data support hypothesis (1), but the effect is minor & its documentation surprisingly weak. The evidence does not support the last 3 hyp's at all. Further res is advocated on factors that do affect exposure. Evidence on the effects of educ'al background, previous history of exposure, & information utility is discussed in this connection. AA.