Question

Write a brief note on the following:

Attitude and opinion

Answer 1

Both attitudes and opinions are stable mental frameworks, but they differ mainly in terms of emotional involvement. Attitudes carry a strong emotional tone they can be clearly positive or negative and are often tied to strong feelings. In contrast, opinions are usually more neutral and less emotionally charged.

For example, if someone’s opinion is criticized, they may not be deeply affected. But if their attitude is challenged, it can lead to strong emotional reactions or discomfort.

According to Krech and Crutchfield, when an opinion is supported by evidence, it becomes knowledge. If it lacks verification but is still accepted, it turns into belief or even faith. While attitudes may remain unspoken, they still influence how a person behaves. Once they are expressed in words, they take the form of an opinion.

Despite their differences, attitudes and opinions are often measured using similar psychological methods.