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Background
In the COVID-19 pandemic, rumors travel far faster than the outbreak itself. The current study aimed to evaluate the factors affecting the attitudes of individuals towards the rumors-producing media in Iran.
Methods
An online cross-sectional survey was conducted in Iran in March 2020 on the source of information and rumors, along with t...
Context in source publication
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Purpose
Drawing on protection motivation theory (PMT) and expectancy theory, this study aims to investigate consumers’ lodging consumption intentions during a pandemic crisis.
Design/methodology/approach
The research survey was conducted during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic (August, 2020) in the USA to investigate consumers’ lodging intentions ami...
The coronavirus pandemic has reached almost every country in the world. The pandemic and its response have had several short-term as well as long term impacts on human health, society, economy, and environment. For instance, the severe lockdowns imposed in certain countries have caused a widespread economic and humanitarian crisis. Therefore, it is...
The coronavirus pandemic has reached almost every country in the world. The pandemic and its response have had several short-term as well as long term impacts on human health, society, economy, and environment. For instance, the severe lockdowns imposed in certain countries have caused a widespread economic and humanitarian crisis. Therefore, it is...
Citations
... Other studies, such as those by Yin et al. [15] and Wang X [16]. , explored netizens' proactive and reactive behaviors in response to rumors, while Banakar emphasized trust-building between the government and the public to reduce the adverse effects of rumors [17]. ...
Background
The harmonious cognitive alignment among various netizen groups is pivotal for the spread and amplification of online rumors. This alignment, characterized by shared cognitive inclinations, fosters uniformity in attitudes and perspectives, thereby precipitating synchronized engagement in the dissemination of such rumors. Notably, discernible disparities emerge in group cognition as different types of rumors pertaining to the same event propagate. This research endeavors to dissect the roles of netizen groups through the lens of cognitive variance, thereby attaining a more profound comprehension of the distinctive traits and behavioral dynamics of various netizen factions in the context of online rumor dissemination.
Methods
By integrating Bloom’s taxonomy and crafting a survey questionnaire, this study captured the cognitive responses of netizens to various online rumor themes across two critical dimensions: (1) Information Cognition: exploring cognitive processing levels from basic recall to application and analysis and (2) Attitude Change: evaluating higher-order cognitive processes such as evaluating and creating in response to complex rumor scenarios. The decision tree classification algorithm was meticulously applied to dissect the catalysts behind the cognitive shifts among netizens. Additionally, the K-Means clustering algorithm was effectively utilized to categorize netizen groups along thematic lines, offering a nuanced view of their cognitive engagement.
Results
The initial impression of a rumor significantly influences netizens’ final cognitive perceptions. Twelve characteristics were observed in netizen groups during the dissemination of rumors on different themes, and these groups were classified into four categories: knowledge-oriented, competition-oriented, social-oriented, and entertainment-oriented, based on their cognitive differences.
Conclusions
Throughout the lifecycle of online rumors, from inception to dissemination, diverse netizen groups assume distinct roles, each exerting a unique influence on the spread and reception of information. By implementing tailored governance strategies that are sensitive to the characteristics of these groups, it is possible to attain substantially more effective outcomes in managing the propagation of online rumors. This nuanced approach to governance recognizes the heterogeneity of the online community and leverages it to enhance the efficacy of interventions.
... Healthcare workers are uniquely positioned to address and manage the infodemic, utilizing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices [10]. Research in Iran indicates that social media users primarily spread rumors, and the lack of a reliable and authoritative news source is a key reason for the emergence of rumors [11,12]. The importance of managing infodemics and rumors in healthcare has gained increased attention, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic [13]. ...
Background
Misinformation (infodemics) can hinder effective healthcare delivery. This study assessed Iranian healthcare workers’ (HCWs) knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding infodemic management (IM).
Method
A cross-sectional survey using a self-reported questionnaire (KAPIM) distributed via convenience sampling to 1890 HCWs across all Iranian Medical Sciences Universities.
Results
The results showed that healthcare workers demonstrated overall KAP scores with a mean of 3.38 out of 5. Knowledge scores were 63.01%, attitude scores were 74.23%, and practice scores were lower at 55.76%. There were positive correlations between age and work experience with both knowledge and attitude scores.
Conclusion
These findings suggest a gap between HCWs’ knowledge/attitude and practice regarding IM. Targeted interventions emphasizing practical skills are needed. Considering demographics and regional variations is crucial when developing training programs for enhanced infodemic preparedness across the Iranian healthcare system.
... The second factor relates to changes in social context wherein the public has less trust in media agencies, government and healthcare providers, and therefore less trust in the health information provided by these institutions [6,7]. Within this social context, the public tend to seek health information from the Internet or other sources, thereby providing space for misinformation [32]. Third, the public health crises (e.g., Covid-19 pandemic and Ebola epidemic) could foster the creations of HM. ...
... Some stronger links were shown when the statistically significant relationships revealed in the chi-square analysis were subject to further logistic regression analysis. The most common factor with links to correct characterisation of rumours was education suggesting a logical, albeit not entirely consistent, relationship between rumour ignorance and less education, a relationship previously identified (Banakar et al., 2021). Those concerned with the proliferation of false rumours on the internet may seek initially to inhibit the spread of false information, but in the longer term, the most effective response is likely to be better and more education. ...
Purpose
While psychology, sociology and communications studies hypothesise a range of independent variables that might impact on individuals’ acceptance or rejection of rumours, almost all studies of the phenomenon have taken place in environments featuring notable, and sometimes very deep, partisan divisions, making it almost impossible to isolate the impact of partisan influences on views on different rumour subjects. This study aims to remove the possibility of partisan influences on readers of internet rumours by testing the impact of independent demographic variables in China, a one-party state with no overt partisan divisions. The study provides an opportunity to strip away the influence of ideology and see whether this factor may have coloured previous studies on susceptibility to believe rumours.
Design/methodology/approach
An empirical study was used to examine belief in false and true online rumours in a non-partisan environment. A large sample group was presented with rumours across four subject areas and respondents’ conclusions and demographic information was then subject to logistic regression analysis to identify relationships between factors and ability to identify the veracity of online rumours.
Findings
Unexpectedly, the regression analysis revealed no statistically significant nexus between many independent demographic variables and patterns of believing or disbelieving rumours. In other cases, a statistically significant relationship was revealed, but only to a limited degree. The results suggest that once the role of partisanship in explaining the proliferation of and belief in false rumours and the ability to identify true ones is removed from consideration, no other independent variables enjoy convincing links with rumour belief.
Originality/value
The study tests in China, a jurisdiction featuring a non-partisan environment, the impact of independent variables on media users’ belief in a wide range of rumours.
... Social media platforms amplified the panic, resulting in the rapid dissemination of false information at an unprecedented rate. In many countries, the general public is frequently confronted with an abundance of misinformation, compounded by restricted access to trustworthy information sources and a deficiency in suitable guidance [1][2][3]. As a result, the public faced significant challenges in accessing credible information sources and obtaining accurate guidance during this turbulent period. ...
Background
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic towards the end of 2019 triggered a relentless spread of online misinformation, which significantly impacted societal stability, public perception, and the effectiveness of measures to prevent and control the epidemic. Understanding the complex dynamics and characteristics that determine the duration of rumors is crucial for their effective management. In response to this urgent requirement, our study takes survival analysis method to analyze COVID-19 rumors comprehensively and rigorously. Our primary aim is to clarify the distribution patterns and key determinants of their persistence. Through this exploration, we aim to contribute to the development of robust rumor management strategies, thereby reducing the adverse effects of misinformation during the ongoing pandemic.
Methods
The dataset utilized in this research was sourced from Tencent's “Jiao Zhen” Verification Platform's “Real-Time Debunking of Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia” system. We gathered a total of 754 instances of rumors from January 18, 2020, to January 17, 2023. The duration of each rumor was ascertained using the Baidu search engine. To analyze these rumors, survival analysis techniques were applied. The study focused on examining various factors that might influence the rumors' longevity, including the theme of the content, emotional appeal, the credibility of the source, and the mode of presentation.
Results
Our study's results indicate that a rumor's lifecycle post-emergence typically progresses through three distinct phases: an initial rapid decline phase (0–25 days), followed by a stable phase (25–1000 days), and ultimately, an extinction phase (beyond 1000 days). It is observed that half of the rumors fade within the first 25 days, with an average duration of approximately 260.15 days. When compared to the baseline category of prevention and treatment rumors, the risk of dissipation is markedly higher in other categories: policy measures rumors are 3.58 times more likely to perish, virus information rumors have a 0.52 times higher risk, epidemic situation rumors are 4.86 times more likely to die out, and social current affairs rumors face a 2.02 times increased risk. Additionally, in comparison to wish rumors, bogie rumors and aggression rumors have 0.26 and 0.27 times higher risks of dying, respectively. In terms of presentation, graphical and video rumors share similar dissolution risks, whereas textual rumors tend to have a longer survival time. Interestingly, the credibility of the rumor's source does not significantly impact its longevity.
Conclusion
The survival time of rumors is strongly linked to their content theme and emotional appeal, whereas the credibility of the source and the format of presentation have a more auxiliary influence. This study recommends that government agencies should adopt specific strategies to counter rumors. Experts and scholars are encouraged to take an active role in spreading health knowledge. It's important for the public to proactively seek trustworthy sources for accurate information. Media platforms are advised to maintain journalistic integrity, verify the accuracy of information, and guide the public towards improved media literacy. These actions, collectively, can foster a collaborative alliance between the government and the media, effectively combating misinformation.
... Some surveys have reached similar conclusions. A survey found that the lack of a reliable news resource was considered the most common cause of rumors (63.6%) (Banakar et al., 2021). Ariel et al. (2022) discovered that individual drives, shaped by personal needs and degree of negative feelings, were the leading factors behind rumormongering. ...
... Within our sample, private media was found to be the most frequent publisher of popular rumors (69.4%), especially social media (62.2%). Some scholars have also found that social media is a major source of rumor (Banakar et al., 2021;R. Wang et al., 2020). ...
Plain Language Summary
With the popularity of mobile terminals and social media increasing, misinformation about science has increased in China. To understand the nature of the popularity of scientific rumors, we analyzed 206 typical cases released by four authoritative platforms in China from 2010 to 2020. Content analysis revealed that the majority of scientific rumors are related to health and safety (76.8%), use a visual format (61.2%), are published on social media (62.2%), and provide more than three narrative elements (78.2%). In addition, rumors from unidentified netizens’ claims or homemade experiments are the most common (35.9%), followed by highly credible sources, such as expert assertions (20.9%) or scientific research results (19.4%). A further qualitative comparative analysis indicated that a combination of details and fear-mongering are significant conditions that make rumors receive significant attention. Visual presentation also plays an important role, while state media and the presence of scientific terminology have a weak effect. Limitations include lack of direct surveys of people’s perceptions, the possibility of incomplete influencing factors, and the fact that the outcome variable is influenced by other factors over a long time span.
... 23, 24 Banakar et al revealed that social media, like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram as well as the national media such as TV and radio were the primary sources of the Covid-19 news for the participants, and print media was less common sources. 25 A reason for such a difference might be that the acquisition of information from social media platforms is more timesaving and less-costly than from the conventional news media such as newspapers or television. Besides, chatting and sharing information is easy on social media. ...
Background: The spreading of health-related rumors can profoundly put society at risk, and the investigation of strategies and methods that can efficiently prevent the dissemination of hazardous rumors is necessary, especially during a public health emergency including disease outbreaks. In this article, we review the studies that implicated the surveillance system in identifying rumors and discuss the different aspects of current methods in this field. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for relevant publications in English from 2000 to 2020. The PICOS approach was used to select articles, and two reviewers extracted the data. Findings were categorized as a source of rumors, type of systems, data collection, and data transmission methods. The quality of the articles was assessed using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT) checklist. Results: Five studies that presented the methods used for rumor detection in different outbreaks were included in the critical appraisal process. Findings were grouped into four categories: source of rumors, type of systems, data collection, and data transmission methods. The source of rumors in most studies was media, including new social and traditional media. The most used data collection methods were human-computer interaction technique, and automatic and manual methods each were discussed in one study. Also, the data transmission method was asynchronous in the majority of studies. Conclusion: Based on our findings, the most common rumor detection systems used in the outbreaks were manual and/or human-computer methods which are considered to be time-consuming processes. Due to the ever-increasing amount of modern social media platforms and the fast-spreading of misinformation in times of outbreaks, developing the automatically and real-time tools for rumor detection is a vital need.
【The full text is available upon request】Governments and social media platforms strive to combat the spread of online rumors by fostering a positive public atmosphere of rumor combating. However, the effectiveness of this approach remains uncertain, as do the underlying mechanisms through which public atmosphere mobilizes social media users against rumors. Leveraging insights from psychological attachment theory and ethics research, this study aims to examine the mediating mechanisms and boundary conditions for the relationship between public atmosphere and rumor-combating participation (RCP). This empirical study employed a hypothetical scenario method to design two scenarios (i.e., strong vs. weak public atmosphere of rumor combating), and collected 331 valid responses using the MTurk platform. The results provide empirical evidence that public atmosphere significantly facilitates RCP. Moreover, high-level psychological attachment (i.e., identification and internalization) fully mediates the relationship between public atmosphere and RCP, but low-level psychological attachment (i.e., compliance) does not act as a mediator. Further examination of the boundary conditions revealed that moral judgment positively moderates the relationship between public atmosphere and psychological attachment (both high-level and low-level). However, anticipated guilt only exerts a positive moderating influence on the relationship between public atmosphere and low-level psychological attachment. This study provides fresh insights by revealing that public atmosphere can promote RCP by enhancing high-level psychological attachment, while uncovering the distinct moderating roles played by moral cognition and emotion in the process. Therefore, this paper not only advances our theoretical understanding of why and under what conditions public atmosphere influences RCP, but also offers practical insights into strategies for mobilizing social media users to combat rumors.
Background/Purpose
The COVID‐19 pandemic affects social and psychological resources. Healthcare workers, especially dental personnel, are more at risk for mental issues due to anxiety, pressure, and frustration. This study assessed mental health outcomes during the COVID‐19 epidemic among Iranian dental care providers, focusing on insomnia, anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Methods
In this multicenter cross‐sectional survey, the Insomnia Severity Index, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Global Psychotrauma Screening were masured. Six hundred thirty‐eight dental care providers (dental specialists, general dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and dental students) from different parts of Iran (Tehran, Shiraz, Tabriz, and Mashhad) were investigated by the stratified sampling method. The univariate analysis was incorporated as independent in binary logistic regression models to analyze the data. In this study, the significance level was set at 0.05.
Results
Among all the participants, 42.8% were dental students or residents, 21.9% were general or specialist dentists, 18.7% were dental assistants, and 16.6% were nonclinicians. The prevalence of insomnia, anxiety, and depression was 31.3%, 40.8%, and 54.9%, respectively. The frequency of participants in the low, moderate, and high levels of PTSD resulting from LCA 56.6%, 33.7%, and 9.7%, respectively.
Conclusions
This study found a significant frequency of mental health issues among Iranian dentists. Females, participants whose relatives have COVID‐19, and those with a higher workload were more likely to develop mental health symptoms. As mental problems among dental professionals might affect the quality of patient care, diagnostic, supportive, and therapeutic interventions should be taken.
Widely spread health-related rumors may mislead the public, escalate social panic, compromise government credibility, and threaten public health. Social collaboration models that maximize the functions and advantages of various agents of socialization can be a promising way to control health-related rumors. Existing research on health-related rumors, however, is limited in studying how various agents collaborate with each other to debunk rumors. This study utilizes content analysis to code the text data of health-related rumor cases in China during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that socialized rumor-debunking models could be divided into the following five categories: the government-led model, the media-led model, the scientific community-led model, the rumor-debunking platform-led model, and the multi-agent collaborative model. In addition, since rumors in public health crises often involve different objects, rumor refutation requires various information sources; therefore, different rumor-debunking models apply. This study verifies the value of socialized collaborative rumor debunking, advocates and encourages the participation of multiple agents of socialization and provides guidance for establishing a collaborative rumor-debunking model, thereby promoting efficient rumor-debunking methods and improving the healthcare of society.
