Improving anti-smoking messages using emotions and decision-making science

Informing anti-tobacco communications with affective and decision science: Application of the Appraisal Tendency Framework

['FUNDING_R01'] · HARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH · NIH-10691295

This study is looking at how feelings like sadness and gratitude can change how well anti-smoking ads work, so we can create messages that really connect with smokers and help them quit.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorHARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10691295 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how different emotions can influence the effectiveness of public service announcements (PSAs) aimed at reducing smoking. By applying the Appraisal Tendency Framework, the project will conduct studies to understand how emotions like sadness and gratitude affect smokers' behaviors and decision-making. The goal is to create more impactful anti-smoking messages that resonate with specific emotional responses, ultimately leading to better public health outcomes. Patients may benefit from more effective anti-smoking campaigns that are tailored to their emotional responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are current smokers who may be influenced by emotional messaging in anti-smoking campaigns.

Not a fit: Patients who have never smoked or are not affected by smoking-related issues may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective anti-smoking campaigns that significantly reduce smoking rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that emotional appeals can influence decision-making, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S.), Centers for Disease Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Centers for Disease Control, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.