Work

Determining or Mediating Media? Model Comparisons on the Role of Media and Risk in Shaping Preventive Behaviors During Crises

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the role of media in risk communication during crises by comparing two theoretical perspectives. The first paradigm views media as a determining factor, while the second sees media as a mediator. The study analyzes two survey data sets: cross-sectional data on nuclear waste issues from eight regions (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and the United Kingdom; N = 8,591) and longitudinal panel data on the COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong ( N = 920). Results consistently support the the greater explanatory power of the first paradigm. Individuals’ willingness to adopt preventive measures highly depends on the media-constructed risks.

Source: Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly

DOI: 10.1177/10776990251382597

Authors: Yi-Hui Christine Huang, Ruoheng Liu, Leyi Zhang, Qinxian Cai, Haodong Liu, Xiaohui Wang

Institution: City University of Hong Kong

Language: English

Topic: Risk Perception and Management

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: City University of Hong Kong

Award: G2828068472