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Article
Me, Myself, and I: Examining the Effect of Loneliness and Self-Focus on Message Referents
Journal of Current Issues & Research in Advertising
  • Elyria Kemp, University of New Orleans
  • David J. Moore, University of Michigan
  • Kelly Cowart, University of South Florida
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2016
Disciplines
Abstract

In a world of constant connectivity, individuals still report experiencing feelings of loneliness. Loneliness refers to the subjective feeling of social isolation and is an important emotion in consumption situations. This research examines the effect of loneliness on consumer evaluations of advertisements. Specifically, two experiments investigate how individuals experiencing loneliness respond to self versus other message referents in advertising. Findings from both studies demonstrate that individuals experiencing loneliness have more favorable dispositions toward messaging that references the “self” as opposed to messaging that references “others.” Theoretical and managerial implications of findings are discussed.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1080/10641734.2015.1119766
Citation / Publisher Attribution

Journal of Current Issues & Research in Advertising, v. 37, issue 1, p. 15-27

Citation Information
Elyria Kemp, David J. Moore and Kelly Cowart. "Me, Myself, and I: Examining the Effect of Loneliness and Self-Focus on Message Referents" Journal of Current Issues & Research in Advertising Vol. 37 Iss. 1 (2016) p. 15 - 27
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/kelly-cowart/7/