Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A persuasive message is a form of communication that aims to change or reinforce an individual's attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors through the use of logical reasoning, emotional appeals, or credibility.
Related terms
Central route persuasion: This term refers to the process of attitude change that occurs when individuals carefully evaluate and consider the arguments and information presented in a persuasive message.
Peripheral route persuasion: This term refers to the process of attitude change that occurs when individuals are influenced by superficial cues like attractiveness or credibility of the source rather than engaging in thoughtful evaluation.
Elaboration likelihood model: This model explains how attitudes can be changed based on two different routes - central and peripheral.