Explanation+of+Graphs

The series of graphs presented in this report have been developed using a simplified psychometric scale, mapping generalised attitudes of populations over a linear period of time in which the nominated action (‘smoking’, ‘use of asbestos’, ‘DDT’, or ‘climate change’) has taken place.

The X axis follows a linear timeline from the earliest known human interaction with the activity, to the latest. The Y axis applies two forms of measuring - The first is the Transtheoretical Model of Behaviour Change (TTM). The Transtheoretical Model refers to several stages of change: ‘Precontemplation’, ‘Contemplation’, ‘Preparation’ and ‘Action’. Note: The Y axis does not include the 5 th  stage of change in this model, ‘Maintenance’. This is because none of the four examples could reasonably be considered to have reached this phase.

The second, more detailed measure on the Y axis is a psychometric scale based on the Likert Scale. The 8 stages cited are based on recurring transitional attitudes observed along the timelines of the four examples. They are ‘Ignorance’, ‘Suspicion’, ‘Research’ ‘Evidence’, ‘Denial’, ‘Acceptance’, ‘Action’, and ‘Change’. We can presume these are scaled responses to the question (collectively addressing the general population) “What is your attitude to the statement that (action) is hazardous to your health?”

These graphs are designed to indicate general variations in attitude over time and to demonstrate;
 *  Whether there are any consistent patterns of transition to be found across each of the four graphs
 *  Whether each attitudinal journey follows a logical, straight line transitioning from ‘ignorance’ to ‘action’ and ‘change’ - or whether we will observe influences that cause the line to vacillate, even after scientific evidence clearly indicates the action is harmful to health.
 * Cover page ||
 * Schopenhauer quote ||
 * Introduction ||
 * Perspectives, evidence, aspects and dimensions ||
 * What is climate change? ||
 * @Why frame climate change as a health risk? ||
 * @Explanation of Graphs ||