A value-attitude-behavior model predicting wildland preservation voting intentions

This article examines the value --> attitude --> behavior cognitive hierarc hy as it pertains to wildland preservation. Data for this investigation wer e obtained from a random sample of Colorado residents (n = 960). A biocentr ic/anthropocentric value orientation continuum was developed and examined e mpirically. Consistent with previous research, confirmatory factor analysis and reliability analysis suggested that a respondent's value orientation t oward wildlands can be positioned along this single continuum. As predicted by theory, a structural equation analysis demonstrated that the biocentric /anthropocentric value orientation continuum predicted a respondent's attit ude toward the preservation of wildlands, and that the attitude fully media ted the relationship between value orientation and behavioral intention to vote for wildland preservation. Overall, this article provides empirical su pport for using the cognitive hierarchy when attempting to understand and p redict responses To natural resource issues.