Misinformation and polarisation as manifestations of social identity: a literature review

Purpose Although previous research has explored links between misinformation and polarisation, it often overlooks the central role of social identity mechanisms. This study aims to examine the relationship between misinformation and polarisation, focusing on the underlying mechanisms of social identity and explaining how identity-driven processes shape the acceptance and dissemination of misinformation, as well as the intensification of opinion and affective polarisation. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a narrative integrative literature review approach, drawing on the social identity perspective and synthesising empirical evidence to develop a conceptual framework that explains the identity-based cognitive, emotional and behavioural processes connecting misinformation and polarisation. Findings The review identifies three key findings. Firstly, social identity drives group-based opinion and affective polarisation, and significantly increases the likelihood that individuals accept and share misinformation consistent with their group stance. Secondly, although misinformation and polarisation have a reciprocal causal relationship, their connection is fundamentally rooted in social identity mechanisms. Thirdly, the expressive function of identity is a key factor, indicating that both misinformation and polarisation are essentially derivative manifestations of social identity. Originality/value By identifying identity mechanisms as the root cause of these dynamics, this study offers an integrated analytical framework that clarifies the foundational role of social identity in misinformation and polarisation. This framework can guide future research and inform the design of targeted interventions to reduce the social and ethical risks of misinformation in digital media environments.