Attitudes, Intentions, and Behaviors: A New Analysis and Historical Perspective of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

background:

The science surrounding GMOs is continually evolving.  As we begin to apply a “health in all policies” approach to decision-making, current knowledge about GMOs must be considered if we are to create policies that evoke transparency and stakeholder buy-in.  Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to assess current beliefs, knowledge and intentions about GMOs and compare these data with data from an earlier study.

methods:

A convenience sample of 50 participants, aged 18-25, were assessed regarding their knowledge, beliefs, and intentions about GMOs.  The data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 and compared to previously existing data.

results:                                              

A greater number of participants in the current study indicated they have knowledge of and approved of the use of GMOs.  Over half also believed that they are eating GMOs compared to 31% from the earlier study. Current participants were also nearly twice as likely to indicate potential risks from consuming GMOs.  However only 34 percent indicated they would change their habits if they found that GMOs were harmful.

conclusions:

The current study demonstrates an increase in GMO knowledge, and a simultaneous disparity between knowledge and behavioral intention among the study participants.  Compared to previous research, this study demonstrated that the population is more aware of GMOs, but are not necessarily likely to change their consumption habits if they found out GMOs were harmful.  Future studies should assess this population based on the constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior because of the discrete step of behavioral intention.