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Using psychometrics to characterize the cognitive antecedents of tolerance for black bears.

Authors :
Delie, Jackie
Edwards, John
Biedenweg, Kelly
Source :
Human Dimensions of Wildlife. 2023, Vol. 28 Issue 5, p435-452. 18p.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Tolerance for wildlife can be informed by a person's beliefs, attitudes, norms, or other characteristics. Although theoretical papers emphasize the interrelations of these multiple antecedents of wildlife tolerance, empirical studies have not tested them using a rigorous scale development process. We used psychometrics to characterize the cognitive antecedents of tolerance toward black bears (Ursus americanus). Proposed scale items were tested via web-hosted questionnaire (n = 240) and refined into 29 items representing five antecedent dimensions of tolerance for black bears. We then administered these items to a different sample of recreational trail users in western Oregon (n = 210). Second-order confirmatory factor analysis confirmed a 19-item measure representing four distinct yet related antecedent dimensions of tolerance: antipathy, connection, lethal control (damage), and lethal control (danger to self, pets, and economics). These dimensions help better explain why people may be more or less tolerant toward black bears and, potentially, other wildlife. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
10871209
Volume :
28
Issue :
5
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Human Dimensions of Wildlife
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
169952021
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/10871209.2022.2077481