Mere Exposure Theory

In complete support for the foot in the door theory, I just wanted to expand on the possibilities in options for persuading parents to letting you study abroad. I have been fortunate enough to travel as well but it did take some coaxing and a low level of unconscious persuasion to make them comfortable with the whole idea of studying abroad.

Have you ever heard of the Mere Exposure Theory? While it may sound too easy to be effective, it actually works when executed correctly. The Mere Exposure Theory basically states that repeated exposure to an unfamiliar stimulus can in and of itself increase positive effects toward the stimulus. To put in simpler terms: Increased exposure=increased liking. The idea of studying abroad will eventually grow on your parents. What's even crazier is that the theory is most effective when it takes place at a low level of awareness or conscious level!

So how do we go about strategically exposing your parents subtly to studying abroad? Here are a few tips:

1. Place travel brochures and pictures of the desired country in communal places such as the living room, kitchen, or even inside their car.

2. Play some of your country's music while your parents are around and act like your sudden switch from hip hop or hard rock to a culturally infused melody is nothing drastic.

3. Talk about how great you've been doing in school lately and how many of your friends are thinking about doing something big to reward themselves

4. Change their computer screen saver to beautiful sceneries of your desired location

5. Find any news articles or featured specials on your country and mention it in light conversations.

Of course, these almost subliminal message exposures take time and should be carried out at least a few months in advance to your study abroad deadline. I know that through the mere exposure theory, my parents were more willing to listen to my reasons and have a more positive feeling toward me studying abroad in Cuba. As you can see in the pictures, studying abroad is an experience of a lifetime and hopefully this persuasion technique works for you too.