How we change what others think, feel, believe and do |
The Identifiable Victim Effect
Explanations > Theories > The Identifiable Victim Effect Description | Research | Example | So What? | See also | References
DescriptionWe empathize with distinct individuals who are suffering far more than a large number of anonymous people. This works because of social identification, where we connect and empathize with one person not a faceless mass. And the more that is done to humanize the individual, the stronger the connection is created. Just a face can have a huge effect. Then hearing about normal human struggle and coping only serves to strengthen the bond. This is an effect used in mediation, where the mediator brings together two warring parties and helps them see one another as fallibly human. Carefully connecting offenders with their victims can also have a powerful healing effect. ResearchSmall, Loewenstein, and Slovic (2007) gave subjects $5 each to complete questionnaires. One group had this message: Food shortages in Malawi are affecting more than 3 million children. In Zambia, severe rainfall deficits have resulted in a 42% drop in the maize production from 2000. As a result, an estimated 3 million Zambians face hunger. 4 million Angolans-one third of the population-have been forced to flee their homes. More than 11 million people in Ethiopia need immediate food assistance. The other group saw a picture of a small girl and were given a message that said: Her life would be changed for the better as a result of your financial gift. With your support, and the support of other caring sponsors, Save the Children will work with Rokia's family and other members of the community to help feed her, provide her with an education, as well as basic medical care and hygiene education. They then asked each group if they would like to donate some of the five dollars. The first group gave an average of 23% of their $5. This doubled to 46% in the second group. Influencing factors they used include:
ExampleA school seeking donations from parents tells them how their money will help their child. A journalist interviews one person in a deprived area, asking them for their name and about their daily lives. So What?Using itWhen you are referring to a large number of people, select one to represent the mass. Show a picture of them, tell their name and the details of their individual situation. DefendingWhen you feel sympathy for an individual presented to you, ask why this person was put forward. See alsoActivation Theory, Attitude-Behavior Consistency, Bystander Effect, Commitment ReferencesSmall, Loewenstein and Slovic (2007)
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| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
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