Study Title: Understanding Perceptions and Their Relationship with Individuals' Differences.
Protocol Number: HSR-24-25-281
Researchers: Phu Uong - Psychology Department M. A. Student, Dr. Aaron Goetz – Psychology Department Professor

Dear Prospective participant,

You are being asked to participate in a research study by Phu Uong under the guidance of Dr. Aaron T. Goetz in the Department of Psychology. This consent form explains the research study and your part if you decide to join the study. Please read the form carefully, taking as much time as you need. You can choose not to join the study. Ask the researcher to explain anything you don't understand. If you enter the study, you can change your mind later or quit anytime. There will be no penalty or loss of services or benefits if you decide not to participate in the study or stop later.

What is this study about?
This research study aims to understand perceptions and how individuals' differences affect viewpoints. We are interested in how these differences hint at the participants' interest levels and perceptions about specific topics.

You are being asked to participate if you are at least 18 and speak English.

You cannot participate in the study if you are under 18 or do not speak English.

Your responses will remain completely private. Taking part in the study will take about 15 minutes.

What will I be asked to do if I am in this study?
If you choose to participate, you will be presented with a brief online questionnaire requesting information about your media viewing, behaviors and attitudes, and perceptions of others. Completing the study will take about 15 minutes, but there is no rush if you wish to take more time. Please kindly ensure that all questions are answered truthfully and accurately. Thank you in advance for helping us complete this valuable research!

Are there any benefits to me if I am in this study?
Participants will contribute to a new body of literature and experience the research process first-hand. In some cases, if you have not been familiar with the topic prior to the study, you may come away from the experience with a desire to learn more about perceptions of human behavior.

Are there any risks to me if I am in this study?
Participation in this study involves minimal risk. If you experience discomfort with a question, you are free to skip any question at your discretion.

Will my information be kept anonymous or confidential?
Data will be kept anonymously. Neither the researcher(s) nor anyone else can link data to you. Data will be stored in a password-protected computer accessible only to the Principal Investigator, Phu Uong, and authorized university personnel who maintain the Sona Systems database.

The data for this study will be kept for a minimum of 5 years. The data will be used in presentations, publications, and future educational materials. No published results, presentations, or educational use will identify you; your name will not be associated with the findings.

Are there any costs or payments for being in this study?
There will be no cost to you taking part in this study.

Participation in this study may provide 0.25 class credit toward Psychology 101 or another applicable class. Course credit will be administered via the online SONA system after completion of the survey. Class instructors should provide an alternative method of earning course credit if you choose to withdraw from this study.

In addition to the course credits, all participants, whether recruited online, such as SONA or in-person, can enter an opportunity drawing for a $20.00 Amazon gift card if they choose to. Participants will be allowed to provide their e-mail addresses at the end of the study to indicate their choice of an Amazon gift card through a Google form, completely separate from the Qualtrics survey, opening in a separate tab from the study. The details submitted on the Google form (e.g., name and contact information) will be kept confidential and unlinked from the responses provided in the survey, ensuring the anonymity of participants.

For CSU Fullerton students participating not via the SONA system ONLY: If you are not recruited from SONA, there will be an optional section in the Google form if you need proof of participation for your classes.

Whom can I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions about this study or the information in this form, please contact the researcher, Phu Uong, and/or Dr. Aaron T. Goetz. If you have questions about your rights as a research participant or would like to report a concern or complaint about this study, please contact the Institutional Review Board at (657)-278-7719 or e-mail irb@fullerton.edu.

What are my rights as a research study volunteer?
Your participation in this research study is entirely voluntary. You may choose not to be a part of this study. There will be no penalty for you if you choose not to take part. You may choose not to answer specific questions or to stop participating at any time.

What does my consent on this form mean?
+ Your consent on this form means that:
- You understand the information given to you in this form
- You have been able to ask the researcher questions and state any concerns
- The researcher has responded to your questions and concerns
- You believe you understand the research study and the potential benefits and risks.

Consent Statement
I have carefully read and/or have had the terms used in this consent form and their significance explained to me. By clicking below, I agree that I am at least 18 and agree to participate in this project. You may print this page for your records.