Understanding interpersonal communication: conversational valence, peer popularity, peer preference, self-persuasion, other-persuasion, and binge drinking determinants

Abstract

Background: Although research has shown that interpersonal communication about health issues influences health campaign effects, little is known about aspects that may influence these effects. In the context of binge drinking, this study investigates conversational valence, peer popularity, peer preference, self-persuasion, and other-persuasion in interpersonal communication and their effects on variables identified in the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Methods: Undergraduate students (N = 115) participated in a two-wave study. TPB variables and peer popularity were assessed at the first wave. One month later, participants, in dyads, discussed alcohol consumption followed by an assessment of conversational valence, peer preference, and again TPB variables. Findings: Individuals’ TPB variables were influenced in line with conversational valence. For example, a positive conversational valence resulted into more positive binge drinking attitudes. It was also demonstrated that participants were not only influenced by others but also by themselves. An interaction effect between peer popularity and conversation valence was revealed. Peer preference yielded no significant effects. Discussion: These findings suggest that conversational valence, other-persuasion, self-persuasion, and peer popularity are relevant aspects of interpersonal communication.