Information Avoidance: Past Perspectives and Future Directions

被引:4
|
作者
Foust, Jeremy L. [1 ]
Taber, Jennifer M. [1 ]
机构
[1] Kent State Univ, Dept Psychol Sci, Kent, OH 44240 USA
关键词
information avoidance; information seeking; deliberate ignorance; ostrich effect; information management; motivated reasoning; conceptual review; RISK INFORMATION; MOTIVATED AVOIDANCE; SELECTIVE EXPOSURE; SELF-AFFIRMATION; CANCER-RISK; SEEKING; HEALTH; MODEL; DECISION; IGNORANCE;
D O I
10.1177/17456916231197668
中图分类号
B84 [心理学];
学科分类号
04 ; 0402 ;
摘要
In the present age of unprecedented access to information, it is important to understand how and why people avoid information. Multiple definitions of "information avoidance" exist, and key aspects of these definitions deserve attention, such as distinguishing information avoidance from (lack of) information seeking, considering the intentionality and temporal nature of information avoidance, and considering the personal relevance of the information. In this review, we provide a cross-disciplinary historical account of theories and empirical research on information avoidance and seeking, drawing from research in multiple fields. We provide a framework of antecedents of information avoidance, categorized into beliefs about the information (e.g., risk perceptions), beliefs about oneself (e.g., coping resources), and social and situational factors (e.g., social norms), noting that constructs across categories overlap and are intertwined. We suggest that research is needed on both positive and negative consequences of information avoidance and on interventions to reduce information avoidance (when appropriate). Research is also needed to better understand temporal dynamics of information avoidance and how it manifests in everyday life. Finally, comprehensive theoretical models are needed that differentiate avoidance from seeking. Research on information avoidance is quickly expanding, and the topic will only grow in importance.
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页数:23
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