Misinformation, Risk Perceptions, and Intention to Seek Information About Masks: The Moderating Roles of Gender and...

Area of Science:

• Communication Science
• Psychology
• Information Science

Background:

• Misinformation poses a significant societal challenge, impacting public understanding and behavior.
• Understanding how corrective messages influence information-seeking behavior is crucial for combating misinformation.
• Theoretical frameworks are essential for designing effective communication strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of theory-driven corrective messages, framed individually versus collectively, on information-seeking intention.
• To examine the mediating role of risk perceptions in this relationship.
• To explore the moderating effects of reflection and gender on information-seeking intention.

Main Methods:

• A randomized experimental study was conducted.
• Hayes' moderated, moderated mediation model was employed for data analysis.
• Independent variables included message framing (individual vs. collective) and moderators (reflection, gender).

Main Results:

• Collective frames were associated with higher risk perceptions, particularly among women.
• Higher risk perceptions mediated the relationship between collective frames and increased information-seeking intention.
• Individuals with higher scores on reflection demonstrated a greater willingness to seek information.

Conclusions:

• Theory-driven messages, specifically collective frames, can effectively enhance information-seeking behavior by influencing risk perceptions.
• Message framing and individual differences (gender, reflection) play critical roles in the effectiveness of corrective messages.
• Findings have significant implications for designing targeted interventions to combat misinformation and improve public understanding.