What does the Heuristic-Systematic Model of Persuasion describe?

The Heuristic-Systematic Model of Persuasion specifically describes two key methods through which individuals can change their attitudes: systematic processing and heuristic processing. Systematic processing involves a thorough and thoughtful consideration of the persuasive message, whereby individuals reflect critically on the arguments being presented and evaluate their validity. This method tends to be more likely when motivation and ability to process information are high.

On the other hand, heuristic processing relies on mental shortcuts or rules of thumb, such as attractiveness of the source or the number of arguments presented rather than the quality. Individuals using this method may not engage deeply with the content of the message but instead rely on simple cues to form their attitudes. This model helps to explain how different factors, such as cognitive capacity and situational context, influence which processing method is employed.

The other options do not capture the core focus of the Heuristic-Systematic Model. While methods of conflict resolution, emotional responses, and social dynamics are important topics in social psychology, they do not specifically address the dual processes of attitude change that the Heuristic-Systematic Model emphasizes.