Exploring attitudes toward predators using cognitive hierarchy theory

It is critical to understand public evaluations of changing environmental conditions in order to develop appropriate policy. The potential return of apex predators in Illinois including the American Black Bear (Ursus... [ view full abstract ]

It is critical to understand public evaluations of changing environmental conditions in order to develop appropriate policy. The potential return of apex predators in Illinois including the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus), Cougar (Puma concolor), and Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) are prime examples. We draw on cognitive hierarchy theory to explore residents’ support for potential management responses to these phenomena, attitudes toward apex predators, and wildlife value orientations. Data were obtained from a statewide survey of residents in Illinois (n=7,500), conducted during the fall and winter of 2015-16. Using structural equation modeling techniques a model was tested whereby four dimensions of wildlife values (appropriate use beliefs, hunting beliefs, social affiliation beliefs, and caring beliefs) were hypothesized to predict attitudes toward apex predators, in turn attitudes toward predators were hypothesized to predict support for three potential management responses (reintroduction, relocation, and breeding). Results confirm the structure of cognitive hierarchy theory where values influence general attitudes, and general attitudes predict more specific ones. A secondary hypothesis was explored comparing the strength of linear associations in the hypothesized model by species. Invariance testing procedures revealed differences in the relationships between appropriate use beliefs and hunting beliefs and attitudes toward predators by species. Similarly, relationships between attitudes toward apex predators and support for reintroduction varied by species. Heterogeneous relationships between values, attitudes, and management responses suggest that policy must be sensitive to public evaluations of the return of each species separately.