Anticipated regret and organ donor registration--a pilot study

Health Psychol. 2011 Sep;30(5):661-4. doi: 10.1037/a0024182.

Abstract

Objective: In this pilot study we tested the influence of manipulating anticipated regret on organ donor registration behavior.

Method: A simple web-based experimental trial was conducted. Nonorgan donors were allocated to a simple anticipated regret manipulation versus a theory of planned behavior or a control condition. The main outcome measure was registration on the U.K. organ donor register at 1-month follow-up.

Results: A simple anticipated regret manipulation led to a significant increase in organ donor registrations.

Conclusion: Interventions utilizing anticipated regret may have the potential to significantly increase organ donation rates.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Choice Behavior
  • Emotions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pilot Projects
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Tissue Donors / psychology*
  • Tissue and Organ Procurement*
  • Young Adult