Quality and Content Analysis: Can YouTube Videos on Agoraphobia Be Considered a Reliable Source?

Background: YouTube, known as an online video platform, is one of the most popular and dynamic video platforms in the world. it provides access to videos with a variety of content, both in health and many other areas. The fact that it is accessible to everyone and free of charge makes it frequently preferred by individuals. The effectiveness of social media platforms on the thoughts and behaviors of individuals has caused YouTube and other similar platforms to be the subject of health research in recent years. Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of feeling trapped somewhere. Agoraphobia is a common type of anxiety disorder in society, and cognitive behavioral and psychopharmacological agents are used in its treatment. Our aim in this research is to examine YouTube(TM) videos on agoraphobia in terms of reliability and quality. Methods: The first 50 videos related to agoraphobia were included in the analysis, and the duration (minutes), video content, institutions/individuals who uploaded the video, the time elapsed since uploading, total views, and likes were recorded. In addition, all videos were evaluated on two different scales: Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information (DISCERN) and the Global Quality Scale (GQS). The obtained data were analyzed statistically. Results: The mean video duration was 11.4±9.38 minutes, the mean views count was 113299.5±333091, and the mean like count was 8512.76±31429.37. Videos were evaluated in terms of content; 50% included general information, 28% agoraphobia experience, and 22% information about overcoming agoraphobia. The GQS and DISCERN scores were significantly higher in professional videos than in non-professionals (p<0.005). Conclusion: As a result of the evaluation of YouTube(TM) videos about agoraphobia in terms of quality and content, it has been determined that it is necessary to increase the rate of videos prepared by mental health professionals. Psychiatrists and other healthcare professionals working in the field of anxiety should be encouraged to provide videos with scientific and reliable content.