Author
Diane JE Sturgeon
djesturgeon@ufl.edu
Invasion Science Institute – University of Florida
Gainesville
Coauthors
Megan K Reid, University of Florida, Davie, Florida
Nic Venter, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Abstract
Public responses to biological control of invasive species can vary considerably, presenting familiar challenges for researchers and practitioners when engaging with public and private stakeholders to promote understanding and acceptance. While consistent engagement and education improve uptake of biological control, people may experience default associations to terms as a result of preconceived definitions. This can create resistance, especially in a time when misinformation through social media is prevalent. To assess initial feelings that may exist towards the term “biological control,” we designed a questionnaire that uses Semantic Differential questions to measure people’s emotional reactions to various terms, as well as their familiarity with biological control, and their perceived comfort with its use in different settings. Our ongoing research examines responses across the United States to inform context-specific outreach strategies and develop more effective stakeholder engagement approaches.
keywords
public perception
science communication
semantic differential
stakeholder engagement
Highlights
Semantic differential surveys measure emotional reactions to biological control terms
Research bridges gap between biocontrol science and public understanding