COVID-19 Misinformation on Social Media: A Study of the Understanding, Attitudes and Behaviors of Social Media Users

Abstract

The dissemination of information via social media is important, particularly during a public health emergency. However, while it is undoubtedly useful in the targeting of genuine health communications, social media may also be used to spread health-related misinformation at times of disease outbreak or pandemic. The study presented here researches the spread of COVID-19 misinformation in Saudi Arabia, by exploring the relevant understanding, attitudes, and behaviors of Saudi Arabian citizens. The current study comprises a survey of 318 adults in Saudi Arabia, of all age groups and educational backgrounds, and from all Saudi Arabian provinces. This study highlights the significance of COVID-19 misinformation and concludes that, despite risks to public health and wellbeing, Saudi Arabian citizens do not consider COVID-19 misinformation to be a significant problem. Participants in this study were relatively aware of such misinformation and its dangers, but it did not greatly concern them, and generally they declined to tackle it proactively.

Exploring Global Impact: The Influence of Social Presence and Online Tutoring in Cultivating a Healthy Social Media Environment

“…The exponential growth of social media has brought about challenges related to cyberbullying (Johanis et al, 2020;Kumar & Bhat, 2022;Nasution et al, 2023), misinformation (Abed, 2021;Aimeur et al, 2023;Gagnon-Dufresne et al, 2023), and other detrimental behaviors. Hence the importance of addressing these challenges to foster a safe and positive online atmosphere.…”