Citation

Reynolds B, Quinn SC. Health Promot. Pract. 2008; 9(4): 13S-17S.

Affiliation

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Society for Public Health Education, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1524839908325267

PMID

18936255

Abstract

During a crisis, an open and empathetic style of communication that engenders the public's trust is the most effective when officials are attempting to galvanize the population to take a positive action or refrain from a harmful act. Although trust is imperative in a crisis, public suspicions of scientific experts and government are increasing for a variety of reasons, including access to more sources of conflicting information, a reduction in the use of scientific reasoning in decision making, and political infighting. Trust and credibility-which are demonstrated through empathy and caring, competence and expertise, honesty and openness, and dedication and commitment-are essential elements of persuasive communication.

Language: en