Receptivity to persuasive narratives in juvenile offenders who use cannabis: influence of motivational variables and engagement.

Persuasive narratives have been shown to be effective in influencing health behaviors. However, their impact on at-risk populations, such as justice-involved juveniles who use cannabis, has received limited attention. This study analyzes the response of 93 juveniles with judicial measures in detention centers to persuasive video-based narratives. These narratives were developed in accordance with the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) and were gender-adapted. Additionally, variables influencing resistance to the persuasive message, assessed in terms of favorability, were examined. Prior to exposure to the narrative, motivational variables such as risk perception, outcome expectancies (both positive and negative) of cannabis non-use, and self-efficacy for action were measured. Following the viewing, generated thoughts (cognitive responses) and engagement with the narrative, focusing on identification with the protagonist and narrative transportation, were assessed. The results revealed that the thoughts generated focused on the message content of the message and personal experiences, with favorable thoughts predominating. No significant differences were found between males and females. Furthermore, narrative transportation acted as a significant mediator between risk perception and message favorability. This study provides empirical evidence on the effect of persuasive narratives in this population, indicating that their design, based on health behavior change theories, enhances receptivity. The findings support their integration into prevention programs within the context of juvenile justice.