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Triggering cognitive dissonance with textual information and images: Data from three experiments with meat-eaters
Nina Weingarten1, Carl-Johan Lagerkvist2, Manuela Meraner3
1Institute for Food and Resource Economics, Chair of Agricultural and Food Market Research, University of Bonn, Nussallee 21, Bonn 53173, Germany.
Data in Brief
|April 27, 2023
Summary
This study measured cognitive dissonance in meat-eaters using text and images. Findings can inform interventions aimed at reducing meat consumption by understanding psychological responses.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Food Studies
Background:
- Cognitive dissonance is a key concept in social psychology, yet empirical measures are limited.
- Understanding factors influencing meat avoidance is crucial for public health and environmental research.
- Existing research lacks comprehensive data on experimentally induced cognitive dissonance related to meat consumption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present data from three experiments measuring cognitive dissonance in meat-eaters.
- To provide empirical data on the effects of textual information and images on cognitive dissonance.
- To explore the relationship between cognitive dissonance, meat avoidance, and socio-demographic factors.
Main Methods:
- Three online experiments were conducted using Qualtrics, recruiting participants via social media and Prolific.
- Cognitive dissonance was triggered using textual information and/or images related to meat consumption.
- Data collected included socio-demographics, food preferences, cognitive dissonance (Likert and Semantic Bipolar scales), and meat avoidance.
Main Results:
- The datasets allow for analysis of information provision's effect on cognitive dissonance and meat avoidance.
- Relationships between socio-demographic variables and cognitive dissonance can be investigated.
- The data facilitates exploration of differences between Likert and Semantic Bipolar scales in measuring cognitive dissonance.
Conclusions:
- The provided data offers a valuable resource for researchers studying cognitive dissonance and meat avoidance behaviors.
- Findings can contribute to developing targeted interventions promoting reduced meat consumption.
- Further research can leverage this data to explore psychological mechanisms underlying dietary choices.
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