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Fiction as a bridge to action

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 November 2017

Melanie C. Green  and
Kaitlin Fitzgerald
Melanie C. Green
Affiliation:
Department of Communication, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260. mcgreen2@buffalo.eduksfitzge@buffalo.eduhttp://www.buffalo.edu/cas/communication/faculty/green.html
Kaitlin Fitzgerald
Affiliation:
Department of Communication, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260. mcgreen2@buffalo.eduksfitzge@buffalo.eduhttp://www.buffalo.edu/cas/communication/faculty/green.html
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Abstract

We propose an extension of the Distancing-Embracing model to the use of stories for prosocial ends. Specifically, audiences may find stories of individuals in need too emotionally overwhelming. Audiences may attempt to regulate or reduce negative emotions, which can reduce empathy and willingness to help. Through distancing, fictionalized accounts may counteract this tendency and thus increase prosocial behavior.

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 40 , 2017 , e363
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2017 

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