Heavy Social Media Use Linked to Believing and Spreading Fake News
Individuals who experience high levels of distress and functional impairment from excessive social media use are significantly more likely to believe fake news and interact with it. Researchers found that problematic users were more inclined to click, like, comment on, and share false news stories, regardless of their accuracy. The study highlights a behavioral connection between social media overuse and susceptibility to misinformation, raising concerns about the role of digital habits in shaping public opinion. These findings could guide mental health professionals, policymakers, and social platforms in efforts to curb the spread of false information. ….[READ]
