Does other-affirmation increase self-directed exposure to and persuasiveness of a threatening anti-alcohol message?

Other-affirmation increased self-reported outcomes and, in Study 1, reduced defensiveness to and improved viewing times to an anti-alcohol message. Other-affirmation could be useful, because it may be suited to particular subpopulations, such as females, and can be easily incorporated into mass-reach health communications. Statement of contribution What is already known on this subject? Self-affirmation of personally important values can reduce defensive responding to threatening health communications. Self-affirmation effects have been shown to be mediated by feelings of connectedness. What does this study add? Affirmation of personally important values in others can improve effects of a health communication. Other-affirmation effects may be greater in those with defensive coping styles. Other-affirmation was mediated by enhanced perceptions of others and their values.