Policy Narratives and Public Opinion concerning Charter Schools

Abstract

According to the Narrative Policy Framework (NPF) approach, anecdotes about policy can be used to clarify whether and how policy narratives impact individual public opinion, which in turn shapes aggregate public opinion. This study focuses on the effect of narratives in shaping opinions regarding charter schools, one of the most controversial policy alternatives in the school‐choice debate. This policy lends itself well to being examined using an NPF approach, since both the supporters and skeptics use strong and distinct narratives to present their case and to advocate for their cause. To examine whether different policy narratives on charter schools influence individuals' opinions and attitudes and preferred policy outcome, a quasi‐experimental design is used to compare baseline and follow‐up opinion data for individuals who read policy narratives reflecting different positions. The results indicate that policy narratives influence public opinion, and that congruence and issue familiarity matter in the nature of the change.Related Articles Shanahan, Elizabeth A., Mark K. McBeth, and Paul L. Hathaway. 2011. “.” Politics & Policy 39 (): 373‐400. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2011.00295.x/abstract Delshad, Ashlie B. 2013. “.” Politics & Policy 41 (): 213‐240. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12009/abstract Post, Lori Ann, Amber N. W. Raile, and Eric D. Raile. 2010. “.” Politics & Policy 38 (): 653‐676. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2010.00253.x/abstract Related Media Video . 2013. Panel titled “Storytelling Is Serious Business: Narratives, Research, and Policy.” October 16. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5ubezaJwN8 Podcast Claudio Sanchez, Claudio. 2013. NPR News podcast. “The Charter School vs. Public School Debate Continues.” July 16. http://n.pr/12tzU6q Blog Post Cairney, Paul. 2014. “” Web blog post. April 7. Paul Cairney: Politics & Public Policy. https://paulcairney.wordpress.com/tag/narrative-policy-framework/