Austin Hubner, University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications Public Relations assistant professor, is the author of two research articles slated for publication in scholarly journals.
Hubner’s research project, “When scientists speak up: Trustworthiness in advocacy contexts,” focuses on the how scientists advocate for solutions to environmental challenges and how their communication is crucial in shaping public trust. The article will be published in Environmental Communication.
According to Hubner, “In this study, we examined how the topic of advocacy (climate change vs. plastic pollution), a scientist’s gender and disclosure of parental status influenced perceptions of expertise, integrity, benevolence and warmth among 969 participants.”
Results indicate that scientists discussing climate change—a highly politicized issue—were seen as less trustworthy across all dimensions compared with those addressing plastic pollution.
She adds, “Gender had no overall effect, but parental disclosure increased perceived warmth and benevolence, with nuanced effects on expertise and integrity: women gained credibility from disclosure, whereas men sometimes faced penalties. These findings highlight that the public’s trust in scientists depends on both the issue being communicated and how scientists present themselves personally.”
The second article, “How the public evaluates various sources of scientific information: A descriptive examination” will be published in Public Understanding of Science.
This study examined public perceptions of six types of science, health, and medical experts, focusing on gender, credibility, benevolence and political affiliation.
She found that medical doctors were rated highest in credibility and benevolence, but all expert types were more likely to be assumed male, reflecting persistent stereotypes. Public health researchers and academic scientists were seen as more liberal, while medical doctors and industry scientists were viewed as politically neutral.
She adds, “Experts perceived as politically partisan were also rated as less credible, showing how perceived ideology can shape trust. These findings highlight how social perceptions and stereotypes influence evaluations of expertise and offer practical insights for science and health communicators seeking to build public trust.”
Category: College News, Science Communication News
Tagged: Austin Hubner Public Relations
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