Mathematical Models of Attitude Change

Mathematical Models of Attitude Change, Volume 1: Change in Single Attitudes and Cognitive Structure presents the mathematical models that address the existing verbal attitude change theories, which are translated into families of mathematical models. This book discusses the two types of attitude change, namely, the attitude toward the object of the message and the attitude toward the source of the message. Organized into three parts encompassing 17 chapters, this volume begins with an overview of the mathematical models of attitude change that are derived from several theories. This text then explains the empirical work designed to test selected mathematical models of attitude change. Other chapters consider the predictions made by different models, including reinforcement, information processing, social judgment, balance, dissonance, and congruity. This book discusses as well the attitude-related variable, namely, belief and belief change. The final chapter deals with models of change in hierarchical organized attitudes using alternative theories of attitude change. This book is a valuable resource for psychologists.