The leading frame-of-reference theories make opposing predictions about the effects of message discrepancy on attitude change. Assimilation-contrast theory predicts that messages that are highly discrepant with initial attitudes are likely to produce less attitude change than messages that are mildly discrepant. In contrast, perspective theory predicts that highly discrepant messages will extend subjects' attitudinal frame of reference (perspective) and thereby produce greater attitude change. The theory was tested by having subjects state their attitudes toward a target issue and, 30 days later, read a persuasive message that was either highly or mildly discrepant with their initial attitudes. Results indicate that the highly discrepant message produced changes in subjects' attitudes whereas the mildly discrepant message did not. In general, the results are consistent with perspective theory and inconsistent with assimilation-contrast theory. The latter may overestimate the closed-mindedness of subjects who are exposed to highly discrepant information. (Author)