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Zhang L, Jiang S. "I Know News Will Find Me": Examining the Relationship Between the "News-Finds-Me" Perception and COVID-19 Misperceptions. Health Commun 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38166580 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2300902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
In the current media environment, some individuals have shifted from actively monitoring news toward passively waiting for the media to alert them about news to a certain extent, forming a "news-finds-me" (NFM) perception. Drawing on a cross-sectional survey (N = 906) of adults from the United States, this study investigates the relationship between the NFM perception and COVID-19 misperceptions. Findings demonstrated a positive association between NFM perception and misperceptions. Moreover, information avoidance mediated the relationship between NFM and misperception. Finally, need for cognition (NFC) was a significant moderator, such that among those with greater NFC, the indirect effect of NFM perception on misperceptions became weaker. Findings of this study can contribute to the literature of NFM perception in health contexts and provide useful guidelines for combating misinformation and misperceptions in the algorithm-generated information environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianshan Zhang
- School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
| | - Shaohai Jiang
- Department of Communications and New Media, National University of Singapore
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2
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Wu Y, Kuru O, Kim DH, Kim S. COVID-19 News Exposure and Vaccinations: A Moderated Mediation of Digital News Literacy Behavior and Vaccine Misperceptions. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:891. [PMID: 36613213 PMCID: PMC9820342 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Being exposed to and believing in misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines is a challenge for vaccine acceptance. Yet, how countervailing factors such as news literacy could complicate "the information exposure-belief in vaccine misinformation-vaccination" path needs to be unpacked to understand the communication of scientific information about COVID-19. This study examines (1) the mediating role of belief in vaccine misinformation between COVID-19 information exposure and vaccination behavior and (2) the moderating role of news literacy behaviors. We examine these relationships by collecting data in two distinct societies: the United States and South Korea. We conducted online surveys in June and September 2021 respectively for each country (N = 1336 [the U.S.]; N = 550 [South Korea]). Our results showed a significant moderated mediation model, in which the association between digital media reliance and COVID-19 vaccination was mediated through vaccine misperceptions, and the relationship between digital media reliance and misinformed belief was further moderated by news literacy behavior. Unexpectedly, we found that individuals with stronger news literacy behavior were more susceptible to misinformation belief. This study contributes to the extant literature on the communication of COVID-19 science through probing into the mediating role of belief in vaccine-related misinformation and the moderating role of news literacy behavior in relation to COVID-19 information exposure and vaccination behaviors. It also reflects the concept of news literacy behavior and discusses how it could be further refined to exert its positive impact in correcting misinformation beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Wu
- Department of Communications and New Media, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117416, Singapore
| | - Ozan Kuru
- Department of Communications and New Media, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117416, Singapore
| | - Dam Hee Kim
- Department of Communication, College of Social & Behavioral Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Seongcheol Kim
- School of Media and Communication, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
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Shahani R, Asmi F, Ma J, Zawar A, Rufai OH, Muhideen S, Amosun TS, Jianxun C. How cyberchondria and decision self-efficacy shapes the acceptability of COVID-19 vaccine: A gender-based comparison. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231185430. [PMID: 37744744 PMCID: PMC10515538 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231185430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Alarmingly, the individuals' reach and coverage to get vaccinated in developing regions during the pandemic is a massive challenge for concerned authorities. This study aimed to demonstrate how cyberchondria play a significant role in a classical health belief model. Cyberchondria may influence cognitive factors (e.g. self-efficacy), which may contribute to an increase in attitude-behavior gap. Especially in the context of a health-centric scenario, it may discourage individuals to take protective measures. Method By using the cross-sectional research design, the authors conducted a quantitative survey in Pakistan and collected 563 responses from 303 male respondents (rural = 91; urban = 212) with (Urban M:35.5, standard deviation (SD):13.4) and rural M:37.5, SD:8.4). Result The findings indicate that decision self-efficacy among males is stronger than that in females. It dominates other determinants, which can dampen the individuals' intentions to get vaccinated. For instance, the effect of conspiracies and perceived seriousness was noted nonsignificant and weak. In females, perceived seriousness was stronger determinant than in males. In addition, the negative effect of decision self-efficacy was noted in the case of females, and conspiracy and cyberchondria had a negative role. Conclusion This study highlights valuable implications for future research in infodemic, health communication and health literacy, and practical implications for regulatory bodies and public administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riffat Shahani
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fahad Asmi
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jin Ma
- Hefei First People's Hospital, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Asma Zawar
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | | | - Sayibu Muhideen
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | | | - Chu Jianxun
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
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Albarracín D. Processes of persuasion and social influence in conspiracy beliefs. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 48:101463. [PMID: 36215908 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
If conspiracy beliefs were an individual process, no conspiracy theory would be alike. Instead, these beliefs are promoted by individuals or social groups through the media or informal channels of communication, leading to identical beliefs being espoused by different people and social groups. This paper reviews the role of the social influence as a basis for conspiracy beliefs and describes the role of legacy media, discussions with others, and social media, as well as the underlying informational and normative mechanisms. The role of trust is also considered, including how trust in science can increase vulnerability to conspiracy theories by opening audiences up to the influence of pseudo-scientists. Mitigating the impact of these influences will require research attention to processes that go beyond correction, elucidating the interpersonal consequences of corrections within contemporary information wars.
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Alper S. There are higher levels of conspiracy beliefs in more corrupt countries. Euro J Social Psych 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ejsp.2919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sinan Alper
- Department of Psychology Yasar University Izmir Turkey
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Scandurra C, Pizzo R, Pinto LE, Cafasso C, Pellegrini R, Cafaggi F, D’Anna O, Muzii B, Bochicchio V, Maldonato NM. Emotion Dysregulation and Conspiracy Beliefs about COVID-19: The Moderating Role of Critical Social Media Use. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2022; 12:1559-1571. [PMID: 36286093 PMCID: PMC9601468 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe12100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
As COVID-19 has spread worldwide, conspiracy theories have proliferated rapidly on social media platforms, adversely affecting public health. For this reason, media literacy interventions have been highly recommended, although the impact of critical social media use on the development of COVID-19 conspiracy theories has not yet been empirically studied. Moreover, emotional dysregulation may play another crucial role in the development of such theories, as they are often associated with stress, anxiety, lack of control, and other negative emotions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that emotion dysregulation would be positively associated with conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19 and that critical use of social media would attenuate this association. Data from 930 Italian participants (339 men and 591 women) were collected online during the third wave of the COVID-19 outbreak. A moderated model was tested using the PROCESS Macro for SPSS. Results showed that: (1) emotion dysregulation and critical social media use accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19; and (2) critical social media use moderated the effect of emotion dysregulation on conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19. Implications for preventing the spread of conspiracy theories are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Scandurra
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-334-15-23-239
| | - Rosa Pizzo
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luca Emanuel Pinto
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudia Cafasso
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Renata Pellegrini
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Federica Cafaggi
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Oriana D’Anna
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Benedetta Muzii
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80133 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Bochicchio
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Nelson Mauro Maldonato
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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Zhang W, You Y, Wang L, Liu W, Zhang X. Information overload's double-edged sword effect on sense of safety: Examining the moderating role of hypervigilance. Stress Health 2022. [PMID: 36251927 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, long-term overlooked motives concerning a sense of safety have become a primary concern. People's sense of safety largely depends on the information they receive. Indeed, a tsunami of information about the virus has been disseminated by all forms of media to people's electronic devices, thus permeating their lives. This study proposed that the over-abundance of information, known as information overload, could endanger individuals' sense of safety by increasing their rumination about COVID-19. However, it could also enhance their sense of safety by increasing their positive attitudes toward COVID-19 precautions. Furthermore, we proposed that individuals' hypervigilance could strengthen the relationship between information overload and rumination about COVID-19 and attitudes toward COVID-19 precautions. We tested these hypotheses using a cross-sectional survey study (N = 403) in February 2021 and a diary study (N = 98) in July 2021 in China. The results of both studies support the dual mediating paths of the relationship between information overload and sense of safety. We also found that hypervigilance moderated the relationship between information overload and rumination about COVID-19. Overall, our study offers insights into how social media may influence people's sense of safety and how individual differences in hypervigilance play a role in the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zhang
- Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue You
- Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Leadership and Organization Management, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Institute of Psychology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Xichao Zhang
- Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
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Zhang TH, Tham JS, Waheed M, Kim JN, Jeong JS, Chang PK, Ahmad AM. Pathway linking health information behaviors to mental health condition during the COVID-19 infodemic: A moderated mediation analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:924331. [PMID: 36106161 PMCID: PMC9464915 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.924331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 outbreak is no longer a pure epidemiological concern but a true digital infodemic. Numerous conflicting information and misinformation occupy online platforms and specifically social media. While we have lived in an infodemic environment for more than 2 years, we are more prone to feel overwhelmed by the information and suffer from long-term mental health problems. However, limited research has concentrated on the cause of these threats, particularly in terms of information processing and the context of infodemic. Objective This study proposed and tested moderated mediation pathways from two types of health information behaviors (social media engagement and interpersonal communication) on information overload and mental health symptoms-long-term stress. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional online survey between May and June of 2021 among the Malaysian public. The final sample size was 676 (N = 676). A conceptual model was built to guide the data analysis. We conducted structural equation modeling (SEM), moderation and mediation analyses to examine each direct pathway, moderating and mediating effects. Results According to the pathway analysis, we found that, during the infodemic period, engaging COVID-19 information on social media positively associated with information overload, but interpersonal communication was negatively related to it. As the proximal outcome, there was also a positive association between information overload and the final outcome, perceived stress. The moderation analysis only reported one significant interaction: risk perception weakened the association between social media engagement and information overload. A conditional indirect effect was demonstrated and the indirect associated between social media engagement and perceived stress mediated through information overload was further moderated by COVID-19 risk perception. Conclusion This research offers new grounds for understanding health information behaviors and their consequences in the COVID-19 infodemic. We particularly highlighted the distinct functions of health information behaviors in causing information overload, as well as the importance of personal health belief in this process. Our proposed model contributes to the strategies of developing health messaging strategies that may be utilized by public health researchers and health educators in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Hongjie Zhang
- Department of Communication, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jen Sern Tham
- Department of Communication, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia,*Correspondence: Jen Sern Tham
| | - Moniza Waheed
- Department of Communication, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jeong-Nam Kim
- Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Jae-Seon Jeong
- Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, South Korea
| | - Peng Kee Chang
- School of Media and Communication, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
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Kurtaliqi F, Zaman M, Sohier R. The psychological reassurance effect of mobile tracing apps in Covid-19 Era. Comput Human Behav 2022; 131:107210. [PMID: 35095184 PMCID: PMC8787674 DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
As part of their public health policies, most countries have launched mobile tracing applications (apps) to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus and reassure their citizens. To the best of our knowledge, no study has explored the importance of 'well-being' and 'trust in the future' in the context of digital contact-tracing apps. This is an important gap, especially given the importance of citizens' acceptance of a mobile tracing app and its role in reassuring citizens. Therefore, we study the French government's tracing app-StopCovid-as experienced by a sample of 832 participants from France. The results establish strong links between perceived value and trust in government, well-being, and trust in the future, which are considered the key features of the reassurance effect in a pandemic context. In addition, a multigroup analysis (MGA) allows us to compare the effect of several moderators on the overall model, such as the users versus nonusers of tracking apps or infected versus noninfected with COVID-19. The study provides practical implications by highlighting how governments should deploy mobile tracing apps to contribute to public health and reassure their citizens during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fidan Kurtaliqi
- Department of Marketing, Audencia Business School, 8 Route de la Jonelière, 44312, Nantes, France
| | - Mustafeed Zaman
- Department of Marketing, EM Normandie Business School, Métis Lab, 20, Quai Frissard, 76600, Le Havre, France
| | - Romain Sohier
- Department of Marketing, EM Normandie Business School, Métis Lab, 20, Quai Frissard, 76600, Le Havre, France
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Dean CE, Akhtar S, Gale TM, Irvine K, Grohmann D, Laws KR. Paranormal beliefs and cognitive function: A systematic review and assessment of study quality across four decades of research. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267360. [PMID: 35507572 PMCID: PMC9067702 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research into paranormal beliefs and cognitive functioning has expanded considerably since the last review almost 30 years ago, prompting the need for a comprehensive review. The current systematic review aims to identify the reported associations between paranormal beliefs and cognitive functioning, and to assess study quality. METHOD We searched four databases (Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and OpenGrey) from inception until May 2021. Inclusion criteria comprised papers published in English that contained original data assessing paranormal beliefs and cognitive function in healthy adult samples. Study quality and risk of bias was assessed using the Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS) and results were synthesised through narrative review. The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was preregistered as part of a larger registration on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/uzm5v). RESULTS From 475 identified studies, 71 (n = 20,993) met our inclusion criteria. Studies were subsequently divided into the following six categories: perceptual and cognitive biases (k = 19, n = 3,397), reasoning (k = 17, n = 9,661), intelligence, critical thinking, and academic ability (k = 12, n = 2,657), thinking style (k = 13, n = 4,100), executive function and memory (k = 6, n = 810), and other cognitive functions (k = 4, n = 368). Study quality was rated as good-to-strong for 75% of studies and appears to be improving across time. Nonetheless, we identified areas of methodological weakness including: the lack of preregistration, discussion of limitations, a-priori justification of sample size, assessment of nonrespondents, and the failure to adjust for multiple testing. Over 60% of studies have recruited undergraduates and 30% exclusively psychology undergraduates, which raises doubt about external validity. Our narrative synthesis indicates high heterogeneity of study findings. The most consistent associations emerge for paranormal beliefs with increased intuitive thinking and confirmatory bias, and reduced conditional reasoning ability and perception of randomness. CONCLUSIONS Although study quality is good, areas of methodological weakness exist. In addressing these methodological issues, we propose that authors engage with preregistration of data collection and analysis procedures. At a conceptual level, we argue poorer cognitive performance across seemingly disparate cognitive domains might reflect the influence of an over-arching executive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte E. Dean
- Department of Psychology, School of Life and Medical Sciences, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Shazia Akhtar
- Department of Psychology, School of Life and Medical Sciences, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Tim M. Gale
- Department of Psychology, School of Life and Medical Sciences, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Irvine
- Department of Psychology, School of Life and Medical Sciences, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Dominique Grohmann
- Department of Psychology, School of Life and Medical Sciences, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Keith R. Laws
- Department of Psychology, School of Life and Medical Sciences, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
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Borah P, Su Y, Xiao X, Lai Lee DK. Incidental news exposure and COVID-19 misperceptions: A moderated-mediation model. Computers in Human Behavior 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.107173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Shen K, Yang J. Residents' Support for Tourism Amidst the COVID-19 Era: An Application of Social Amplification of Risk Framework and Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Theory. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:3736. [PMID: 35329429 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Given that the concept of risk perception stems primarily from consumer behaviour, tourism research has tended to address the issue from tourists’ perspective, resulting in a lack of consideration of destination residents’ risk perception and its impact on their attitudes and subsequent behaviour. Based on the social amplification of risk framework (SARF) and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) theory, this study constructed a theoretical model to deepen the understanding of destination residents’ support for tourism. Results indicate that residents’ social media use, knowledge of COVID-19 and attitudes to tourism and tourists are all positively related to their support for tourism. Furthermore, residents’ risk perception is negatively associated with their attitudes to tourism, attitudes to tourists and support for tourism. However, the relationship between residents’ social media use and risk perception was not confirmed. Theoretical and managerial implications were discussed.
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Boguslavsky DV, Sharova NP, Sharov KS. Public Policy Measures to Increase Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination Rate in Russia. IJERPH 2022; 19:ijerph19063387. [PMID: 35329076 PMCID: PMC8955973 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The total vaccination rate remains relatively low in Russia as of March 2022 (around 55%, with around 20% in some regions). In the paper, we study the reasons for it. We communicate the results of our survey aimed at detecting reasons for the relatively low anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination rate in Russia (47.1% as of mid-January 2022) and suggest potential measures to increase the level of confidence in the Russian vaccination campaign. A total of 14,310 users exhibited interest to participate in the research (16.84% of the total number of invitations sent in the Russian social network VKontakte). After the sample set repair, only 5822 (40.68% of those who agreed to participate) responses were suitable for the research, and they composed the final set. The age range of the respondents was 16–51 years old (y.o.) with a mean of 29.1 ± 10.6 y.o. The proportion of the female gender in responses was 44.23%. A total of 2454 persons (42.15%) expressed their hesitant, cautious, or negative attitude towards vaccine uptake. Of the 2454 persons with cautious attitude towards vaccination, only 928 (37.82%) were concerned about the quality of the Russian vaccines. A total of 1323 individuals (53.91%) supported one or more conspiracy beliefs. A total of 5064 (86.98% of the whole set) showed cautious or negative attitude towards the planned introduction of a nationwide system of vaccination certification/verification based on QR codes. The main social factors that hinder the Russian vaccination campaign are: vexation over the lack of desire of officials to receive feedback from the general population regarding vaccination, wide support for conspiracy beliefs, and controversy over the QR code-based digital system. To elevate the vaccination rate in Russia, the following steps may be taken: social encouragement of those who support vaccination, increase in transparency of the vaccination campaign, acceptance of both digital and paper vaccination certificates, increase in participation of society in vaccination-related discussions, public disclosure of vaccine composition, and avoidance of excessive digitalization of data in the vaccination campaign.
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14
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Kožuh I, Čakš P. Explaining News Trust in Social Media News during the COVID-19 Pandemic-The Role of a Need for Cognition and News Engagement. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:12986. [PMID: 34948596 PMCID: PMC8701362 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182412986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
During the recent COVID-19 pandemic, people have, in many cases, acquired information primarily from social media. Users' need to stay informed and the intensive circulation of news has led to the spread of misinformation. As they have engaged in news, it has raised the question of trust. This study provides a model on how news trust can be explained through a need for cognition and news engagement. Accordingly, 433 Slovenian social media users participated in our survey. Structural equation modeling revealed that (1) the lower the need for cognition and the more prior knowledge about COVID-19 users have, the more they believe that social media news comprises all facts about the disease; (2) the more users believe that news comprises all essential facts, the more they trust that the news depicts the actual situation about COVID-19 accurately; (3) the more users are interested in engaging with social media news, the more they trust that the actual situation about COVID-19 is depicted accurately. These findings may help authorities to frame messages about COVID-19 effectively. We suggest investing more effort in disseminating new scientific evidence about the disease to contribute to the accurate shaping of knowledge about COVID-19 among social media users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Kožuh
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
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15
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Su Y, Lee DKL, Xiao X. "I enjoy thinking critically, and I'm in control": Examining the influences of media literacy factors on misperceptions amidst the COVID-19 infodemic. Comput Human Behav 2021; 128:107111. [PMID: 34866771 PMCID: PMC8631744 DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.107111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Misinformation circulation has arguably reached a peak during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating an “infodemic” that severely endangers public health and well-being. Using a moderated mediation model, a survey of 712 respondents from China reveals that social media information seeking is positively associated with COVID-19 misperceptions, while need for cognition (NFC) is negatively associated with it. Both relationships became more significant while mediating through individuals' general misperceptions. Moreover, it is found that among those with greater locus of control over media, the association between social media information seeking and COVID-19 misperceptions became more positive, while the association between NFC and COVID-19 misperceptions became more negative among those with greater media locus of control. Findings provide insights into the misperception research and have practical implications regarding infodemic management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Su
- School of Journalism and Communication, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 , China
| | - Danielle Ka Lai Lee
- Edward R. Murrow College of Communication, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99163, USA
| | - Xizhu Xiao
- School of Journalism and Communication, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266071 , China
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16
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Mao JY, van Prooijen JW, Yang SL, Guo YY. System Threat during a Pandemic: How Conspiracy Theories Help to Justify the System. Journal of Pacific Rim Psychology 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/18344909211057001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have endorsed conspiracy theories about foreign governments yet shown increased trust and support for their own government. Whether there is a potential correlation between these social phenomena and the psychological mechanisms behind them is still unclear. Integrating insights from the existential threat model of conspiracy theories and system justification theory, two experimental studies were conducted to investigate whether belief in out-group conspiracy theories can play a mediating role in the effects of system threat on people's system justification beliefs against the background of the pandemic. The results show that system threat positively predicts individuals’ system-justifying belief, and belief in out-group conspiracy theories mediated this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yan Mao
- School of Teacher Education, Nanjing Normal University
| | | | | | - Yong-Yu Guo
- School of Psychology, Nanjing Normal University
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17
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Dopelt K, Avni N, Haimov-Sadikov Y, Golan I, Davidovitch N. Telemedicine and eHealth Literacy in the Era of COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Peripheral Clinic in Israel. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:9556. [PMID: 34574480 PMCID: PMC8464820 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic mandating isolation, quarantine, and social distancing has accelerated and expanded the use of telemedicine. This study examines the extent of the use of telemedicine and the relationship between eHealth literacy and satisfaction with using telemedicine during the pandemic. A total of 156 participants from a clinic in a peripheral community in southern Israel completed an online questionnaire. We found that 85% knew how to use the internet for health information, but only one third felt safe using it to make health decisions. Furthermore, 93% used the internet for technical needs, such as renewing prescriptions or making a doctor's appointment. Even lower use for telemedicine was found (38%) for consultation or treatment sessions. A positive association was found between eHealth literacy and satisfaction variables with using telemedicine (rp = 0.39, p < 0.001). Although respondents understood the benefits of telemedicine, they were not satisfied nor interested in online sessions after the epidemic's end, preferring a meeting involving personal interaction. Young people and academics benefit more from telemedicine, thereby creating usage gaps and potentially increasing existing inequality. We recommend developing intervention programs, especially among vulnerable populations, to strengthen eHealth literacy and remove barriers causing skepticism about the use of telemedicine during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Dopelt
- Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, 12 Ben Tzvi St., Ashkelon 78211, Israel; (N.A.); (Y.H.-S.); (I.G.)
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel;
| | - Nofar Avni
- Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, 12 Ben Tzvi St., Ashkelon 78211, Israel; (N.A.); (Y.H.-S.); (I.G.)
| | - Yana Haimov-Sadikov
- Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, 12 Ben Tzvi St., Ashkelon 78211, Israel; (N.A.); (Y.H.-S.); (I.G.)
| | - Iris Golan
- Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, 12 Ben Tzvi St., Ashkelon 78211, Israel; (N.A.); (Y.H.-S.); (I.G.)
| | - Nadav Davidovitch
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel;
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18
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Keren F, Siddiquei AN, Anwar MA, Asmi F, Ye Q. What Explains Natives and Sojourners Preventive Health Behavior in a Pandemic: Role of Media and Scientific Self-Efficacy. Front Psychol 2021; 12:664399. [PMID: 34267704 PMCID: PMC8275932 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.664399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a severe global public health emergency. The current research investigated and compared "Natives and Sojourners" health-protective behavior in Mainland China during the pandemic. We adopted a unified view to propose our theoretical model by adapting the Health Belief Model (HBM) and Institutional Theory (IT). The data obtained through an online survey questionnaire from 435 respondents during the second and third quarters of were analyzed. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to empirically analyze the proposed model. The media self-efficacy (MSE), scientific self-efficacy (SSE), perceived health risks (PHRs), and the perceived benefits of being protected have positive and significant effects on the definition of health-protective behavioral intentions among natives and sojourners in mainland China. Media and SSE can play a strategic role in formulating public health-protective behavior. The current research recommends an effective communication with sojourners during crisis for them to be a part of the national crisis management plan (i.e., infectious disease).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Keren
- School of Journalism and Communication, Anhui University, Hefei, China
| | | | | | - Fahad Asmi
- Department of Science and Technology of Communication, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Immersive Media Technology (Anhui Xinhua Media Co, Ltd.), Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Hefei, China
| | - Qing Ye
- Department of Science and Technology of Communication, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Immersive Media Technology (Anhui Xinhua Media Co, Ltd.), Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Hefei, China
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