Volume
54
Issue
6
DOI
10.34068/joe.54.06.11
Abstract
The general public may not recognize the value of conserving insects and spiders in home landscapes. We surveyed individuals to assess public perceptions of 10 arthropods—nine common insects and one common spider species—and to determine whether arthropod-related attitudes could be altered. Additionally, we collected data on survey respondent gender, age, and level of entomology education and found that level of entomology education was strongly associated with respondents' perceptions about arthropods. Moreover, 60% of respondents were willing to change their attitudes after learning about an arthropod's benefits. By promoting arthropods at outreach events, Extension educators could alter arthropod-related attitudes among the general public.
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Recommended Citation
Harris, B. A., & Braman, S. K. (2016). Opportunity to Improve Public Perceptions of Arthropods and Arthropod-Related Benefits. The Journal of Extension, 54(6), Article 11. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.54.06.11
