Segmenting Normative Beliefs Regarding Wolf Management in Central Italy

Abstract

We segmented a sample of the Italian public based on their normative beliefs to support or oppose wolf management options. Based on the specificity principle and the notion of predictive potential, we hypothesized “minimal” differences among the segments for demographic and past experience variables and substantive differences among the segments for belief and attitude measures. Data were collected through personal interviews (n = 1,611) in Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park and the surrounding area. Using K-means cluster analysis, three clusters of respondents were identified: those who favored protection, opposed protection, and had mixed views regarding wolves. Consistent with the hypotheses, demographics (i.e., age, sex) and prior-experience (i.e., hunting, seeing wolves) did not substantively differ among the clusters. The three segments, however, did differ in their beliefs about the perceived impacts and attitudes toward wolves. Findings reinforce the predictive potential of psychological variables when attempting to understand support or opposition for wildlife management issues.