Dissertation Defense Schedule
Academic Excellence
Sharing original dissertation research is a principle to which the University of Delaware is deeply committed. It is the single most important assignment our graduate students undertake and upon completion is met with great pride.
We invite you to celebrate this milestone by attending their dissertation defense. Please review the upcoming dissertation defense schedule below and join us!
PROGRAM | Communication
The effect of social media influencer warranting cues and impression formation on contraceptive-related behavioral intentions
By: Emily Pfender Chair: Scott Caplan
ABSTRACT
Young women increasingly get sexual health information from social media influencers, who use persuasive communication and can alter attitudes, intentions, and behaviors. Contraception is a commonly discussed topic among influencers on social media. Previous research suggests that influencers negatively frame and encourage the discontinuation of hormonal contraception. At the same, influencers encourage the uptake of less effective nonhormonal options, such as fertility awareness-based methods. Being that previous research on this topic is primarily descriptive, the purpose of this study was to experimentally test the effect of influencer contraceptive-related messaging on behavioral intentions. Specifically, this study tested the effect of influencer messages containing sponsorship and medical disclaimers on behavioral intentions using warranting theory and source credibility theory. Using an online survey, this experiment recruited 300 females in the United States ranging in age from 18 – 29 years old. Path analysis findings did not provide support for a direct relationship between warranting cues and behavioral intentions. This finding proposes new boundary conditions for warranting theory and serious health behaviors. In the context of birth control and pregnancy prevention, the severity and potential consequences involved may overshadow the impact of warranting cues. However, there was a positive relationship between impressions of the influencer, including source credibility and authenticity, and behavioral intentions (e.g., use a fertility awareness-based method). Finally, source credibility and authenticity operated as two distinct constructs, suggesting that they have unique roles in an influencer context. Practical implications provide direction for policymakers to create credible and authentic social media messages, highlight the importance of patient-provider communication in contraceptive counseling, and underscore the need for accessible and accurate information about the range of available contraceptive options. Future research should test influencer messaging using real social media content, consider the effect of following an influencer for an extended period of time, and evaluate warranting value associated with influencer cues.
The Process
Step-by-Step
Visit our “Step-by-Step Graduation Guide” to take you through the graduation process.From formatting your Dissertation to Doctoral Hooding procedures.
Dissertation Manual
Wondering how to set up the format for your paper. Refer to the “UD Thesis/Dissertation Manual” for formatting requirements and more.
Defense Submission Form
This form must be completed two weeks in advance of a dissertation defense to meet the University of Delaware Graduate and Professional Education’s requirements.
