Discuss sleeper effect
The sleeper effect is a phenomenon in which a persuasive message is initially discounted or not believed by the recipient, only to be more effective in changing their attitude or behavior over time. This can occur when the source of the message is deemed less credible, when the message itself is not seen as credible or convincing, or when there is a delay in the delivery of the message and its impact.
There are several factors that can contribute to the sleeper effect, including:
1. Source credibility: If the source of the message is not viewed as credible or trustworthy initially, the recipient may dismiss the message. However, over time, the recipient may forget the source of the message and focus more on the content itself, making it more persuasive.
2. Message content: If the message is not seen as convincing or supported by evidence initially, the recipient may discount it. However, as time passes, the recipient may remember the message but forget the reasons why they initially did not believe it, making it more persuasive in the long run.
3. Delayed impact: Sometimes, the impact of a message may not be immediately apparent, and it may take time for the recipient to process and internalize the message. This delayed impact can lead to the sleeper effect, where the message becomes more persuasive over time.
Overall, the sleeper effect is an important concept in understanding how persuasive communication works and how attitudes and behaviors can change over time. It highlights the need to consider not only the immediate impact of a persuasive message, but also its long-term effects and potential for creating lasting change.