Work

Missing the Bigger Picture: The Need for More Research on Visual Health Misinformation

Year: 2022

Type: editorial

Abstract: Research shows that health misinformation is widespread online and poses a potentially significant threat to public health. Visual misinformation has been largely overlooked, a notable gap given the unique features and ubiquity of visual content. In this essay, we (a) provide a working definition of visual misinformation, (b) summarize the main categories of visual misinformation, (c) offer examples of the functions visuals can serve within misinformation content, and (d) outline priorities for advancing research on visual misinformation. A systematic approach to studying visual misinformation can improve efforts to mitigate health misinformation and optimize science communication in the current information environment.

Source: Science Communication

DOI: 10.1177/10755470221113833

Authors: Kathryn Heley, Anna Gaysynsky, Andy J. King

Institutions: National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, ICF International (United States), University of Utah, Huntsman Cancer Institute

Language: English

Topic: Misinformation and Its Impacts

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Cancer Institute