Information seeking during the COVID-19 pandemic: Application of the risk information seeking and processing model

BACKGROUND: To limit the risk of contracting the coronavirus, it is crucial for individuals to attain accurate COVID-19 related information. Once equipped with such information, they can engage in risk preventive behaviors. OBJECTIVE: Applying the risk information seeking and processing (RISP) model, this study examined the sociopsychological factors predisposing individuals’ information-seeking intentions. METHODS: This study employed a cross-sectional survey design. Using an online survey platform, study participants were recruited from US adults. A total of 510 valid responses were included in the analyses. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted in a hierarchical fashion while controlling for numerous covariates to determine the relationships between the sociopsychological variables and information-seeking intentions. RESULTS: Sociodemographic disparities were found in perceptions of COVID-19 risk. Perceived risk of coronavirus infection was higher among females, individuals with a history of COVID-19 symptoms, and those in a lower health status. Individuals' perceived risk provoked affective responses (e.g., worry and fear), which then increased self-perceived information insufficiency. This finding indicated individuals experienced worry and fear after perceiving the risk of coronavirus. Such affective responses made them realize that their current COVID-19 related knowledge was insufficient. Subjective norms were also found to increase information insufficiency. In other words, individuals who desired to comply with others’ expectations to acquire knowledge about the risk recognized that their current knowledge about coronavirus was insufficient. Finally, individuals who acknowledged information insufficiency were motivated to seek information about the coronavirus. The relation between information insufficiency and information-seeking intentions was moderated by perceived information gathering capacity, but not by relevant channel beliefs. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that policy makers and clinicians assist the public in obtaining accurate information from reliable sources.