Warnings seek to influence precautionary intent, and precautionary intent is largely a function of the individual's expectations about possible consequences. This paper organizes relevant research and proposes a interactive/decision-making model of the warning process that features three broad dimensions: 1) threat-related expectations, 2) outcome-related expectations, and 3) receiver characteristics. Some of the most robust findings in the warnings literature parallel predictions offered by the proposed model. This paper concludes that expectations broadly influence how the individual will approach and interact with virtually any hazardous situation.
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