Emotional Impact of Disinformation on Social Media Users: A Phenomenological Exploration

Abstract

The rapid spread of disinformation on social media has raised significant concerns regarding its impact on individuals' perceptions and mental health. While existing studies largely focus on the spread and correction of disinformation, little attention has been given to the emotional and psychological effects experienced by users exposed to such content. This study aims to address the gap by exploring the lived experiences of social media users encountering disinformation. Using a phenomenological approach, we investigate how individuals perceive, react to, and cope with disinformation, focusing on the emotional and cognitive dimensions of these experiences. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 12 social media users, and thematic analysis revealed three key themes: the erosion of trust in social media, increased anxiety, and the development of coping strategies. The findings suggest that disinformation not only affects trust in media but also induces significant emotional distress, while users actively develop methods to navigate this challenge. These results offer valuable insights into the personal, subjective consequences of disinformation and highlight the need for interventions that address both the psychological impact and media literacy. Future research could further explore the long-term effects of disinformation and the role of different demographic factors in shaping these experiences.