Information-Seeking Behaviors in the COVID-19 Crisis in Turkey

Abstract

In this study, information-seeking behavior during the initial quarantine period of the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey is examined, and predictors of information-seeking are analyzed through the synthesis of Information Repertoire and Protection Motivation Theory approaches. Based on data collected from 2283 participants representing Turkey, the study reveals the changing impact of the need based on information types, information sources, and protection motivation components according to the channels through which information is sought. The results demonstrate that, in addition to the importance of the information need, perceived severity, response efficacy, and perceived susceptibility motivate information seeking. Furthermore, perceptions of the competence of the social environment motivate information seeking, highlighting the role of social context in information seeking. The results underline the need for policies to strengthen the effectiveness of official actors providing information in line with search dynamics in disaster communication and to design messages that are sensitive to social context.