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PULLMAN, Wash. - The more people rely on social media as their main news source the more likely they are to believe misinformation about the pandemic, according to a recent survey analysis by Washington State University researcher Yan Su.
The study, published in the journal
Telematics and Informatics, also found that levels of worry about COVID-19 increased the strength of people s belief in that misinformation. Two factors weakened beliefs in false information: having faith in scientists and a preference for discussion heterogeneity, meaning people liked talking with others who held different views.
Su, a doctoral student in WSU s Murrow College of Communication, said the findings point to possible practical solutions to disrupt the spread of misinformation.
WSU Study finds social media use increases belief in COVID-19 misinformation nbcrightnow.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from nbcrightnow.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.