In this article processes by which causal arguments effect change in established beliefs were explored. The hypothesis that explanation availability mediates belief change in response to causal arguments was tested in 2 experiments. Persuasive communications used causal evidence, noncausal (statistical) evidence, or both to argue that AIDS is not transmissible by casual contact. Results supported the authors' hypothesis. Causal arguments produced the greatest belief change, with the effect mediated by explanation availability. Causal arguments were also less subject to evaluation bias, consistent with a cognitive interpretation of the biased assimilation phenomenon (in which evidence in favor of one's position is evaluated more favorably than evidence in opposition). Experiment 2 replicated the basic effects with dependent measures (including a measure of behavioral commitment) obtained 3 weeks after presentation of the communications. These results suggest that a causal component strengthens the educational potential of persuasive arguments.

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Gays and Lesbians Older and Wiser (GLOW), a support group sponsored by a geriatric medical clinic in the midwest, is described. GLOW has been meeting monthly for 7 years. Scheduling, professional involvement, and special attention to social support seem critical for the group's success. Older gay men and lesbians often have unique support needs that may not be met by either general services to the elderly or by gay organizations, which typically cater to a younger population. We conclude that carefully designed support groups can meet some support needs for this older population.

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