Cognitive correlates of online news evaluation in adolescents with varied patriotic attitude profiles

Introduction. In the current socio-political climate, understanding how adolescents process heterogeneous online news is critical for fostering constructive patriotic attitudes. This study identifies cognitive correlates of news evaluation among adolescents with differing patriotic attitude profiles. Materials and Methods. Empirical data were collected via: Vasilieva and Miklyaeva’s Adolescent Constructive Patriotism Questionnaire; Gelfman, Kholodnaya, and Demidova’s Ideal Computer Method; and Epstein’s Intuitive Style Questionnaire. Participants included 342 adolescents (100 male, 242 female; aged 13–18), stratified into two age/gender-matched groups: blind patriotism (n=113) and constructive patriotism (n = 117). Results. Adolescents universally showed low differentiation in online news evaluations. Unlike the blind patriotism groups, those with constructive patriotism consulted more diverse information sources, rated news as more significant, reliable, and timely, and demonstrated greater independent processing. These outcomes correlated with an open mindset and cognitive decentration. Conclusion. Fostering constructive patriotism should incorporate training in critical news analysis, active cognitive engagement, and independent judgment formation.