Hengen, N. (1970). The perception of danger in action illustrations. AV Communication Review, 18(3), 250-262.

(Conclusions.) This study investigated the effects of cue variation in two related pictures portraying action. Taking into account the limitations of the variables chosen and the population represented by the sample taken, the conclusions based on the results of the experiment may be stated as follows:

1. Significant interpretaton differences resulted when selected cues in the illustrations were varied from a situation in which the cues combined to produce a maximum condition for evoking fear and danger, to a situation in which the cues combined to produce a maximum condition for evoking feelings of escape and safety.
2. The Ss in the experiment appeared to be influenced first of all in their judgments by the control variable or cue, and secondly by the appearance or expression of the horseman, horse, and the skier.

These findings, within the context of this study, seem to point to the apparent ability of the person depicted to control environment as the key factor in interpretation of a still picture involving action. This cue to the reader, and secondarily, the registration of fear or calmness in the attitude of those involved in the picture's action, took precedence over any interpretations arising from a study of the background of the picture. Thus, the results fo the research seem to indicate that it is not always, as is sometimes taught and often given considerable credence, the face in such a picture with which the viewer is primarily concerned and to which he attaches the most importance in arriving at a prediction of outcome. This study suggests that greater importance should be given to elements indicating environmental control. More research is, of course, suggested in the hope that other illustrations might be designed to test these findings and conclusions, either to substantiate or repudiate them in light of new evidence and insights.