Although it is generally accepted that there is no evidence of socioeconomic damages resulting from the Argo Merchant oil spill, a survey undertaken approximately one year revealed that perceptions of significant damage exist among residents of adjacent areas. Concurrently, critics suggest the media exaggerated potential damages. Our findings indicate that erroneous damage perceptions are associated with a number of cultural and demographic variables, including differences in exposure to new media. Persons with erroneous damage perceptions had been exposed to a much larger number of information media reporting on the effects of the spill. Those concerned with providing accurate information will have to supply facts and data to the media, to local public officials, and to residents who are opinion leaders.

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