Mass Media
Articles tagged with Mass Media
Missing information can misinform
Online echo chambers could arise even without algorithmic nudges or seeking like-minded people
A new study finds that interaction dynamics in online communities can amplify small imbalances, rapidly turning mixed-opinion communities into highly-polarized ones. Even without algorithms and homogeneity-seeking behaviors, initial polarizations can emerge unintentionally.
Why risk perception matters for quitting smoking
A recent study found that risk perceptions of e-cigarettes rose sharply during and after the EVALI outbreak, lingering even after scientists identified the cause. This shift in perception was more pronounced among non-white participants, potentially exacerbating existing health disparities.
UN Women report finds online violence and deepfakes drive women from public life
A new UN Women report reveals that online violence and deepfakes are pushing women out of public life, with alarming rates of mental health diagnoses and self-censorship. The study also found that law enforcement is often failing to provide justice for survivors, highlighting the need for effective education and training.
Research finds journalism classes lack consistent approach to AI use across institutions
New research from the University of Kansas found varying approaches to AI use in journalism classes across US institutions. The study suggests that a more consistent approach could better serve education and practice, but inconsistent policies may confuse students. Researchers recommend clearer guidelines from accrediting bodies.
Impact of China’s “wolf warrior diplomacy” on public opinion in East Asia
Researchers found that exposure to aggressive diplomatic messaging reduces favorability towards China in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. In contrast, perceptions of the US are less affected, with limited persuasive power.
Where people get their news influences their beliefs about vaccines
A new Johns Hopkins University study reveals a significant link between following 'new right' media outlets and vaccine hesitancy. The research surveyed nearly 3,000 adults, finding that those who engage with these outlets are more than twice as likely to be hesitant about vaccines.
Who do tipsters really work for?
Adolescents who follow social media tipsters report higher gambling intention and increased frequency. The study highlights the need for stronger regulation of tipster-related marketing and media literacy programmes to address persuasive strategies and improve risk awareness.
Study finds high school journalism leading the way in financial literacy, even if business isn't part of curriculum
A study by the University of Kansas found that high school journalists learn business skills through practice and experiential learning, even if business concepts are not directly addressed. Student media advisers reported financial pressures and stressed the need for improved financial literacy education.
Academic expert: Is social media addictive?
Social media use has been linked to psychological distress and impaired functioning in some people, but the impact varies widely depending on how and why it's used. Researchers are debating how to measure social media addiction and need more rigorous studies to determine whether it should be classified as a clinical disorder.
Online viewers prefer livestreams to recordings
Researchers found that watching an online performance in real time boosts several aspects of the viewing experience, including a common factor of heightened sense of presence. The liveness effect weakens when viewers cannot see a performer's face, but going live can benefit streamers by motivating audience engagement.
“Better design instead of blanket bans”
The report proposes new strategies for digital safety, including AI-powered tools to detect and intervene in harmful situations. Experts also recommend involving children and youths in the design process, particularly schools, to promote agency and well-being.
Unveiling a ‘conspiracy of silence’ surrounding Johnny Kitagawa’s crimes of sexual abuse
A recent study examines the mechanisms behind Japan's prolonged silence on Johnny Kitagawa's crimes, characterizing it as a 'conspiracy of silence.' The research reveals that structural factors, including media networks and government policies, contributed to this silence. Key findings include the avoidance of negative coverage by tele...
Do TV ads work? Ask smart TVs
A new study reveals traditional TV ads deliver less than expected impact, with promotions, recency, programming, and habits playing a crucial role in ad effectiveness. The research uses smart TV data to measure causal impact on consumer purchases, providing insights for advertisers and improving TV networks' measurement capabilities.
Frequent social media use could impact child development
Adolescents who spend more time on social media tend to struggle with recognizing and pronouncing words. However, frequent social media use is also linked to faster information processing and shorter reaction times.
Do political insults pay off? New research shows what politicians actually gain from divisive political rhetoric
A new study finds that personal attacks in politics are strongly associated with greater media coverage, but show no correlation with fundraising or policy success. Researchers discovered an asymmetric pattern of conflict entrepreneurs, who use antagonistic rhetoric to gain media attention and become 'media celebrities'.
Ticketmaster's Eras Tour chaos made worse by crisis communication failures
A crisis communication study reveals Ticketmaster's inadequate response to technical failures and public backlash, leading to a political scandal and antitrust lawsuit. The company's lack of transparency, avoidance of responsibility, and failure to issue a full apology further damaged its reputation.
News media representations contribute to stigma around childlessness
Research analyzes news articles on childlessness, identifying themes that perpetuate stigma and structural imbalances, highlighting the need for media literacy initiatives and equitable health communication
Students with lower self-control tend to procrastinate with short-form video; sleep suffers, but not grades, study finds
A study found that college students with lower self-control and habitual use of short-form videos experience poorer sleep health and higher stress, but not diminished academic performance. Researchers suggest that institutions of higher learning and society can help by providing holistic mental health and student health outreach services.
How time changes impact public sentiment in the U.S.
A study published in PLOS One found that individuals experience a more negative reaction to the time change from daylight saving time (DST) to standard time (ST) in the fall, compared to the transition from ST to DST in the spring. Social media sentiment analysis revealed a depressive impact in early fall.
Machines spot deepfake pictures better than humans, but people outperform AI in detecting deepfake videos
A recent study found that AI programs are up to 97% accurate at detecting pictures of deepfake faces, but performed at chance levels when it comes to detecting deepfake videos. Humans correctly identified real and fake videos about two-thirds of the time, picking up on subtle inconsistencies in movement and facial expressions. The stud...
Digital targeting creeps out customers
Researchers find that personalized digital marketing can evoke a powerful emotional response, leading consumers to feel uncomfortable and less likely to make purchases. To mitigate this 'creepiness,' brands can focus on prevention by designing personalization practices that minimize ambiguity and avoid signals of intrusive surveillance.
Flagging claims about cancer treatment on social media as potentially false might help reduce spreading of misinformation, per online experiment with 1,051 US adults
An online experiment with 1,051 US adults suggests flagging potentially false cancer treatment claims on social media can help reduce the spread of misinformation. The study found that intervening and reducing sharing of false information on social media may have a positive impact on public health.
From ancient myths to ‘Indo-manga’: Artists in the Global South are reframing the comic
A new volume of comics studies argues that comics from the Global South need to be read on their own cultural terms, highlighting their use as a tool for resistance, identity assertion, and social change. The book showcases diverse case studies from Latin America, Africa, Asia, and beyond.
Spain leads global research on AI and journalism
Research reveals major gaps in studying the relationship between AI and journalism, including environmental impact and Global South deployment. Most studies are conducted from Europe, leaving scarce attention to the Middle East, Latin America, and sub-Saharan Africa.
Study finds emphasis on conversation facilitation helps journalists re-engage communities
A study found that pairing student journalists with communities through structured conversation can help rebuild trust and teach future reporters how to listen to and investigate the needs of overlooked communities. The program resulted in 27 conversations involving students and 135 community members, generating a complete curriculum f...
Evidence behind intermittent fasting for weight loss fails to match hype
A new Cochrane review suggests that intermittent fasting may not be an effective strategy for weight loss in overweight or obese adults. The study found no meaningful difference in weight loss between intermittent fasting and traditional dietary advice or doing nothing, highlighting the need for more research into this area.
The extent of drought areas shapes public response
A study analyzing news reports, social media posts, and internet search data during the 2022-2023 South Korea drought found that public views change depending on problem size and distance from people. Public interest, emotions, and behavior also shifted as the disaster scale changed.
Your social media feed is built to agree with you. What if it didn’t?
A new study from the University of Rochester found that social media algorithms can reinforce echo chambers, but introducing randomness can help reduce this effect. By exposing users to a broader range of perspectives, algorithms can weaken feedback loops and promote more open-minded views.
The REST-COAST project launches “My REST-COAST” Mobile App to engage citizens in coastal ecosystem restoration across Europe
The REST-COAST project has developed a mobile app, My REST-COAST, to raise public awareness and engagement in coastal ecosystem restoration across Europe and Israel. The app provides interactive maps, site-specific biodiversity information, and gamified learning paths to encourage users to explore restoration strategies.
Why parents turn to social media about kids’ drug use
A study by Harvard Medical School and the University of Texas at Arlington found that parents seeking advice on substance use from online peers can be misled by misconceptions. The research suggests that while social media offers a unique window into parental concerns, it should complement evidence-based guidance rather than replace it.
On the nose: Beauty, bias and the face of social media
New Edith Cowan University research explores how facial filters and pop culture shape perceptions of the nose. Dr Laura Glitsos found that social media reinforces narrow Eurocentric beauty standards, negatively impacting people's self-worth and wellbeing.
Conveying the concept of blue carbon in Japanese media: A new study provides insights
A recent study by Doshisha University researchers found that Japanese media generally accurately conveys the concept of blue carbon, but fails to adequately address its challenges and risks. The study recommends improved collaboration among media professionals, policymakers, and marine scientists for effective science communication.
People with “binge-watching addiction” are more likely to be lonely
A study published in PLOS found that individuals with binge-watching addiction are more likely to experience loneliness. The researchers discovered an association between increased loneliness and higher levels of binge-watching addiction, suggesting that people may engage in this behavior as a coping mechanism for emotional distress.
Political writing retains an important and complex role in the national conversation, new book shows
A new book by University of Exeter experts Professor Gary Love and Professor Richard Toye examines the importance of political writing in modern Britain. The authors argue that long-form writing remains a vital part of the national conversation, from pamphlets to punk fanzines, and has shaped political identities and activism.
News language and social networks: how do they affect the spread of immigration attitudes?
Researchers found that people living in areas connected to those most affected by the AP's ban on labeling people held less restrictive immigration policy preferences. Media language plays a significant role in shaping political attitudes and can extend to individuals' social networks.
Study shows how kidnapping of athlete's father influenced society, president across continents
A study from the University of Kansas found that the kidnapping of Luis Manuel Díaz, father of Colombian soccer star Luis “Lucho” Díaz, resulted in coverage that portrayed his son as a national hero and cast doubt on peace negotiations. The media framing of the story had broader implications for the Total Peace initiative and the Petro...
Can a hashtag help prevent atrocities? Study shows social media can be a powerful tool
A new study by Binghamton University Professor Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm found that social media hashtags can help identify early warning signs of violence and amplify local voices. The research examined social media campaigns in Canada and Syria, analyzing over 5,000 posts tied to #TruthAndReconciliation and #SaveSyria.
Are we giving AI a pulse through language?
A study by Iowa State University researchers found that anthropomorphizing language, such as using mental verbs like 'think' or 'know', is less common in news writing than expected. When used, these words often describe what AI requires to function, rather than attributing human-like qualities to the system. The research team identifie...
US Congressmembers’ responses on X to mass shooting events differ along party lines
A study published in PLOS Global Public Health found that US Congress members' social media responses to mass shootings vary along party lines. Democratic congressmembers are more likely to post about guns, framing their responses in terms of community, victims, and legislature, whereas Republican members focus on Second Amendment righ...
AI video translation shows promise but humans still hold the edge
A new study from the University of East Anglia finds that AI tools excel at speed and clarity, but human translators remain crucial for tone, cultural nuance, and natural sound. Generative AI can handle parts of video translation, but consumers still notice when something feels off.
The Showgirl's Rebirth: Taylor Swift’s shift from introspection to optimistic confidence
The album marks a new era for the singer, exploring themes of performance, love, and empowerment. Scholars analyze Swift's shift from teen country singer to showgirl persona, finding optimism and hope in songs like 'Eldest Daughter' and 'Opalite'.
Price of a bot army revealed across hundreds of online platforms worldwide – from TikTok to Amazon
A new analysis using COTSI data reveals that verifying fake accounts for use in the US and UK is almost as cheap as in Russia, while Japan and Australia have high prices due to SIM costs and photo ID rules. The average price of SMS verification for an online platform was $0.26 in the US and $0.10 in the UK.
How emotions spread online following celebrity suicide news
A study analyzing resharing behavior on X (formerly Twitter) shows that different expressed emotions unfold in the aftermath of celebrity suicides, with disgust being the most contagious emotion. The findings emphasize the need for emotion-specific approaches to both theoretical modeling and practical intervention in online environments.
Gen Z views world as "scary place" with growing cynicism about ability to create change
New research reveals heightened anxiety and declining optimism among young Americans, who perceive risk everywhere they turn due to factors like Covid-19 lockdowns and school shootings. Gen Z is increasingly cynical about changing the world, viewing politics and protests with skepticism.
Study explores the link between newspaper preference and attitudes towards autism
A new study from City St George's University of London found that people's newspaper reading habits are a reliable predictor of their attitudes towards autism. The research reveals that around 10% of the differences in automatic, unconscious bias were linked to what newspapers people read.
Lowest suicide rate is in December but some in media still promote holiday-suicide myth
A study by the Annenberg Public Policy Center finds that the US suicide rate is lowest in December, with a significant decline during the year-end holiday season. However, some news outlets continue to perpetuate the false myth that suicides increase around the holidays.
Why do lower-class youths receive more online ads about making easy money?
A pioneering study by UPF found that lower-class young people, especially boys, receive twice as many ads about risky financial products as their upper-class peers. The study also reveals marked gender differences in online advertising, with girls receiving more fashion and beauty ads than boys.
Event aims to unpack chaos caused by AI slop
The ARU symposium delves into the effects of consuming mass-produced low-quality content, reshaping art, media, politics, and the internet. Dr Tina Kendall discusses the psychological and societal implications of AI-generated material, including its environmental costs.
Half of novelists believe AI is likely to replace their work entirely, research finds
A study of 258 published novelists in the UK found that half believe AI will replace their work entirely. The majority also report using AI for non-creative tasks like information searches and editing text written without AI. However, many express concerns about copyright laws not being respected and originality being lost.
Study finds Marion County Record raid created 'shared press distress' among fellow journalists
A recent study from the University of Kansas found that a 2023 police raid on a small-town newspaper in Kansas sparked
The most effective online fact-checkers? Your peers
A recent study by researchers from the University of Rochester, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, and University of Virginia found that publicly displayed community notes can effectively curb misinformation on social media platforms. The study analyzed 264,600 posts on X that received at least one community note and found that p...
Right or left, low-quality news links popular on social media
A recent study analyzing millions of social media posts found that news shared on platforms with conservative user bases is lower in quality, yet gets more likes and shares. Meanwhile, a user's posts with lower-quality news links get more engagement than their higher-quality news posts across both liberal- and right-leaning platforms.
For battered brands, consumers can be defenders
Researchers identified three types of online brand defenders: promoters (emotionally attached), justice promoters (fairness driven), and self-promoters (ego-driven). Companies can encourage promoters by acknowledging them, while justice promoters require a sense of fairness. Self-promoters are motivated by attention and rewards.
Baltic countries lead the way in supporting media freedom internationally, according to new index
The Baltic states of Lithuania and Estonia topped the Index on International Media Freedom Support, while Latvia came in 9th. The report highlights a significant gap between public commitments and actual support for media freedom among larger countries like the US, UK, Italy, and Japan.
Media imagery paints a one-sided and fear-inducing picture of dementia
A new study analyzed images of dementia in Finnish newspapers, finding a narrow and negative picture. The majority depicted people with dementia as elderly and frail, perpetuating stereotypes. Images also frequently used emotionally charged visual metaphors, such as puzzle pieces and trees shedding leaves.
AI-generated content triple threat for Reddit moderators
Researchers found that AI-generated content is a triple threat to Reddit moderators, posing concerns over decreasing content quality, disrupting social dynamics, and being difficult to govern. To address these issues, moderators are enacting rules and trying to preserve the community's humanity.
Most users cannot identify AI bias, even in training data
A recent study found that most users cannot identify AI bias in training data, unless it affects their own group. Researchers created 12 versions of a prototype AI system to detect facial expressions and tested how users might detect bias in different scenarios.
Social media comments can act as “quick warning signals” against misinformation, study shows
A study published in a book by Professor Florian Stöckel and colleagues found that social media comments can act as signals for true or false information, helping users identify accurate news. However, these comments can also be misleading and undermine trust in correct information.