Does informational social media use negatively impact preventive behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic? The moderating roles of citizens’ scientific knowledge and trust in science

This study is first to examine the link between using social media as a primary COVID-19 information source and preventive behavior, while examining moderating effects. Using the O-S-R-O-R model and panel survey data from Germany (N = 776), it finds a negative direct effect of informational social media use on preventive behavior, and a negative indirect effect through conspiracy beliefs. However, the negative impact is less pronounced in individuals with high knowledge and trust in science. These findings underscore the importance of accurate, comprehensive social media communication, especially in crises, and have practical implications for policymakers and scientific institutions.