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Presentation Type

Open Access Poster Presentation

Abstract

This study examined the role of psychological factors in people’ attitude toward abortion. A sample of 294 U.S. adult citizens were recruited from mTurk in October 2022. A principal component analysis revealed that people’s attitude toward abortion was grouped into two categories: traumatic (e.g. pregnant due to rape) and elective (e.g., unmarried pregnancy). After controlling for religious belief and political ideology, empathy toward mother vs. unborn, and internal locus of control, was strongly related to the attitude toward abortion in both categories. Greater need for cognition correlated with more support of elective but not traumatic abortion.

Start Date

3-4-2023 9:00 AM

End Date

3-4-2023 10:00 AM

Faculty Advisor

Jiuqing Cheng

Department

Department of Psychology

Student Type

Undergraduate Student

Comments

This entry was a part of the following session:

  • Date: Monday, April 3, 2023
  • Time: 9:00 to 9:50 a.m.
  • Moderator: Elizabeth Lefler

Award: IAF Research and Creativity Funds

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Apr 3rd, 9:00 AM Apr 3rd, 10:00 AM

The Role of Psychology in People's Attitude Toward Legal Abortion in the U.S.

This study examined the role of psychological factors in people’ attitude toward abortion. A sample of 294 U.S. adult citizens were recruited from mTurk in October 2022. A principal component analysis revealed that people’s attitude toward abortion was grouped into two categories: traumatic (e.g. pregnant due to rape) and elective (e.g., unmarried pregnancy). After controlling for religious belief and political ideology, empathy toward mother vs. unborn, and internal locus of control, was strongly related to the attitude toward abortion in both categories. Greater need for cognition correlated with more support of elective but not traumatic abortion.