Seventeen studies (n=3,986) were included in the review: 41% included first-person narratives and 59% included third-person narratives. The mean research quality rating was 3.5 (range 2 to 4); this did not differ significantly by narrative type. Most studies had an adequate sample size, but sampling was poorly described in all studies. Only one study included validated measures.
First person narratives: Seven studies covered the following scenarios (where specified): skin cancer prevention, testicular self-examination and polio vaccination. Three studies provided evidence that first-person narrative evidence had a persuasive effect on individual's decision. Three studies found that statistical and narrative data were equally effective.
Third-person narratives: Ten studies covered the following scenarios (where specified): organ donation, osteoporosis, skin cancer susceptibility. Two studies found that narrative was more persuasive than statistical information. Seven studies found both narrative and statistical messages to be persuasive under certain conditions.
Variables that were investigated to possibly explain the effect of narrative information on decision making were presented.