Identifying perceptions associated with agricultural chemical use: Implications for pesticide applicator training programs in Illinois

Abstract

A dichotomy was found to exist between how pesticide applicators have perceived issues related to agricultural chemical use and what applicators have believed to be true about perceptions held by the public on similar issues. Stakeholders having rural orientations were perceived to be more inclined to be supportive of the use of chemicals in the production of agricultural commodities than were those having an urban orientation. The results of eight qualitative focus group interviews, comprised of fifty-two private and commercial pesticide applicators and public officials in Illinois were conducted and studied. The analysis was set within a framework of a perception variables model developed by the researcher. The model dealt with source, message, and audience factor independent variables and certain internal mediating processes all associated with attitudinal change. Implications of the findings for pesticide applicator training programs in Illinois were that specific: (a) modifications to the existing program, (b) introductions of new teaching methodologies, (c) expansion of subject matter content areas, and (d) increased opportunities for inclusion of the public sector in program planning will lead to improved programs.