Perceptions of Appalachia

Abstract

This article examines the boundary perceptions and images that three groups have of the Appalachian region. The analysis is based on data gathered from 2366 questionnaires administered to students in 63 colleges and universities located in and adjacent to the Appalachian region. The groups analyzed include the "in-siders" (those who perceive themselves to be from Appalachia), the "cognitive outsiders" (perceive themselves as not from Appalachia but actually reside in the region), and the "residential outsiders" (reside outside region). Results demonstrate that insiders perceive the region to be much larger and in much more postive images than do either of the outsider groups. The practical implications of such findings should include a review of the perceptions of regional residents in defining regional problems, goals, and objectives.