The traditional model of medicine involves recognizing symptoms, undergoing diagnostic tests to find the cause of the symptoms, and provide treatment to relieve or cure the underlying disease. However, with the advent of genetic testing and the ability to diagnose asymptomatic individuals, the traditional model of diagnostic testing and treatment no longer applies. By employing the Extended Parallel Processing Model, EPPM, and utilizing messages similar to fear appeals, this study examined participants' perceptions of testing and treatment efficacy, behavioral intentions to undergo testing, and attitudes towards traditional and genetically-based diagnostic testing. Results indicated that the type of diagnostic test and the temporal proximity of the treatment with respect to the diagnostic test is important in determining the perceived efficacy of testing, treatment, and intent to undergo testing. Practical as well as theoretical implications are discussed as well as directions for future research
