Date of Award:

5-1974

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Kinesiology and Health Science

Department name when degree awarded

Health, Physical Education and Recreation

Committee Chair(s)

Janice Pearce

Committee

Janice Pearce

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine if a relationship exists among opinions toward fluoridation of public water supplies, income, and level of education of the people of Salt Lake City, Utah. There were also two secondary concerns. One was to determine if a relationship exists between opinions toward fluoridation and other controversial social issues. The issues identified for investigations were: (1) the Supreme Court decision on abortion, (2) the Equal Rights Amendment, and (3) capital punishment. The second was to determine the factors on which opinions regarding fluoridation were based.

The results of the data that was collected indicated that the higher the education level of the population the higher the probability of a favorable opinion about fluoridation. The lower the education level of the population the higher the probability of an opinion of opposition to fluoridation. (2) If the subjects yearly income was $20,000 or more there was an increased likelihood of a favorable opinion of fluoridation. If the subjects yearly income was less than $20,000, there was a greater likelihood that the opinions would be in opposition to fluoridation. (3) A majority of the subjects opposed the Supreme Court ruling on abortion and the Equal Rights Amendment. A majority favored reinstatement of capital punishment.

Interpreted, this was felt to reveal a tendency of the subjects to adopt a conservative stand on controversial social issues.

Checksum

cfd4f8b8cbd948021e2c81789e3be4d4

Share

COinS