The Extended Parallel Process Model: Illuminating the Gaps in Research
Abstract
This article examines constructs, propositions, and assumptions of the extended parallel process model (EPPM). Review of the EPPM literature reveals that its theoretical concepts are thoroughly developed, but the theory lacks consistency in operational definitions of some of its constructs. Out of the 12 propositions of the EPPM, a few have not been tested explicitly and not a single one received unequivocal empirical support. This article proposes alternative operationalization for some of the constructs and examines some assumptions of this theory, such as additive relationship between the constructs, the role of time and issue of thresholds, and disregard for the existing state of the audience. Finally, the role of the EPPM as a potential foundation for a general theory of negative emotional appeals is addressed.
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The updated review is consistent with conclusions from prior reviews that mechanisms are often under-studied and need additional research.
“Although some of the theories investigated do discuss mechanism to some degree (e.g., EPPM; Witte, 1992), our updated review of the literature is consistent with conclusions from prior reviews that these mechanisms are often under-studied and are in need of additional research (e.g., Popova, 2012).”
From Appealing to fear: A meta-analysis of fear appeal effectiveness and theories (2015) · cites this paper as Popova, 2012
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Appealing to fear: A meta-analysis of fear appeal effectiveness and theories
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- Authors
- Popova, L.
- Affiliations
- University of California, San Francisco (US)
- Corresponding author
- Popova, Lucy
- ORCID
- Popova, Lucy
- Venue
- Health Education & Behavior
- Publisher
- SAGE Publications
- Published
- 2011-10-14
- Volume
- 39
- Issue
- 4
- Pages
- 455-473
- ISSN
- 1090-1981 (ISSN-L)
- 1552-6127
- OpenAlex
- W2037531034
- Cited by
- 361
- References
- 8
- Citations by year
- 2026: 30 · 2025: 28 · 2024: 40 · 2023: 41 · 2022: 45 · 2021: 42 · 2020: 29 · 2019: 17 · 2018: 21 · 2017: 25 · 2016: 12 · 2015: 12 · 2014: 11 · 2013: 7
- FWCI
- 7.66
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- closed
- Locations
- Health Education & Behavior (publishedVersion)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- Topics
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Applied Psychology › Behavioral Health and Interventions
- Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › Literature and Literary Theory › Media Influence and Health
- Social Sciences › Sociology and Political Science › Risk Perception and Management
- Keywords
- Extended Parallel Process Model, health communication, emotional appeal, construct operationalization, threshold
- MeSH terms
- Fear, Health Education, Humans, Models, Theoretical, Motivation, Research Design, Health Behavior, Risk Assessment, Self Efficacy
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