In a recent study published in Scientific Reports, researchers explored the relationship between exposure to news on the COVID-19 pandemic through social media, feelings of fear and anxiety, and changes in behavior among the adult Iranian population.
The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 has prompted individuals to increasingly rely on social media for news and information sharing. This rise in usage can be attributed to quarantine measures and the need for communication during physical distancing. However, the proliferation of misleading rumors and disinformation has posed health risks. The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of fact-checking to prevent negative consequences.
The cross-sectional study surveyed Iranian adults in April 2020 who accessed social media platforms and were exposed to COVID-19 outbreak news. The questionnaire collected demographic information and assessed exposure to news, as well as behavioral and psychological reactions to the pandemic.
Results showed that a significant number of respondents reported fear, anxiety, and behavior changes. Exposure to COVID-19 news on social media had the greatest influence on psychological health, increasing anxiety, fear, and behavior changes. Increased exposure to news on COVID-19 also correlated with greater anxiety, possibly due to uncertainty and the lack of effective prevention measures.
However, exposure to COVID-19 news on social media also led to positive changes in behavior, such as increased use of preventive measures like face mask-wearing, hand washing, and social distancing. The study suggests that public awareness campaigns and informative content on websites and social media platforms contributed to the adoption of these preventive behaviors.
The study highlights the important role of the media in crisis response, influencing mental health, promoting behavioral changes, and educating the public. It emphasizes the need to improve media literacy to recognize trustworthy information and share credible content. Governments also have a responsibility to provide timely and credible information to prevent the spread of disinformation.
In conclusion, while exposure to COVID-19 news on social media may induce fear and anxiety, it also has the potential to drive positive behavioral changes. It is crucial to enhance media literacy and ensure the dissemination of reliable information to manage the impact of news on social media during crises.
Journal Reference: Scientific Reports
