Define and differentiate between attitudes, beliefs, and values

How are they reflected in an audience? Imagine a speech topic and give an example of the way audience attitudes, beliefs, and values might influence a speaker's approach to that topic.

What will be an ideal response?


Attitudes are tendencies to respond for or against an object, person, or position. Beliefs are convictions in the existence or truth of something. Values are levels of worth placed on some idea, object, or action. Audiences vary in the degree to which they will be favorable or unfavorable toward a speaker's central idea or point of view. If speakers hope to change audience attitudes, beliefs, values, or behaviors, they must first understand their current thoughts and feelings and consider how these might influence the way they will perceive a speech or thesis. So speakers should ask themselves what attitudes, beliefs, and values audience members may have that might influence their response to the topic and thesis.

Communication & Mass Media

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The laissez-faire leader is really an example of a nonleader

Indicate whether this statement is true or false.

Communication & Mass Media

Rashid is responsible for taking care of his younger brother one afternoon a week, but he does not like to come across as an "authority figure" with his brother. Instead, he prefers to be viewed as a fun-loving brother. One afternoon, when his brother begins to jump on the couch for the fourth time, Rashid tells him to quit or the little brother won't be able to go to his favorite restaurant the next day for their uncle's birthday. Which of the following best describes the credibility of Rashid's threat?

A. It is not credible because Rashid does not control the outcome of the sanction. B. It is credible because the punishment is not something to be avoided. C. It is credible because Rashid seems willing to carry out the punishment. D. It is not credible because it is not a negative sanction. E. It is not credible because Rashid appears unwilling to invoke the punishment.

Communication & Mass Media

Women and minorities don’t receive any special preference when applying for broadcast station licenses

a. True. b. False.

Communication & Mass Media

Which statement is NOT true about a bibliography for a working speech outline?

A. The bibliography should follow a specific format, such as APA or MLA format. B. The bibliography should include only those sources used directly in your speech. C. The bibliography is a list of sources used in preparing the speech. D. The bibliography should include sources used as a source of background information.

Communication & Mass Media