Personal disclosure in science communication.

Area of Science:

• Science Communication
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Personal self-disclosure is widely recommended for science communicators to build trust and connection.
• This strategy aims to bridge the perceived gap between scientists and the public.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the effectiveness of personal self-disclosure in science communication.
• To examine the trade-offs associated with scientists revealing personal information.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of empirical studies on self-disclosure in science communication.
• Analysis of perceptions related to warmth and competence.
• Assessment of downstream impacts on behavioral intentions and support.

Main Results:

• Self-disclosure can increase perceptions of warmth (liking, benevolence).
• However, it concurrently decreases perceptions of competence and expertise.
• These ambivalent effects lead to limited downstream impact and potential risks.

Conclusions:

• The common advice to use personal self-disclosure in science communication is questionable.
• Evidence suggests a trade-off between perceived warmth and competence.
• There is a need for theory-driven, evidence-based strategies in science communication research.