International Students' Risk Perception: Seeking and Processing of Avian Influenza Information

• Main Author: Boerner, Franziska U.
• Other Authors: Griffin, Robert, Wolburg, Joyce, Scotton, James
• Format: Text
• Language: unknown
• Published: e-Publications@Marquette 2006
• Subjects: Communication; Health Communication; Mass Communication; Avian flu
• Online Access: https://epublications.marquette.edu/theses/1572; https://epublications.marquette.edu/context/theses/article/2571/viewcontent/boern_f_2006.pdf

This study applied an audience-based approach using the risk information seeking and processing (RISP) model to overcome the problems of previous sender-oriented and atheoretical research regarding risk and crisis communication for new emerging health risks with potential pandemic character such as SARS and Avian Influenza. The research was conducted to determine: (1) individuals' risk motivations to seek and process information, and (2) their Avian Flu information seeking and processing behavior. The model of risk information seeking and processing (Griffin, Dunwoody, & Neuwirth, 1999) provided the theoretical framework for this study. This theoretical framework may help researchers understand the motivational factors influencing individuals seeking and processing of Avian Flu risk information.