Engaging With Vilifying Stereotypes: The Role of YouTube Algorithmic Use in Perpetuating Misinformation About Muslim Congresswomen

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between personal traits, news use via YouTube algorithmic searches, and engagement with misinformation about U.S. Muslim congresswomen. Based on analyses of survey data, we find that those with lower cognitive ability and frequent algorithmic use were more likely to believe and share misinformation. Republicans and those with higher levels of nationalism and prejudice against Muslims were also more likely to believe the misinformation. Moderation findings suggest that higher algorithmic use strengthens belief in misinformation about U.S. Muslim congresswomen. The results highlight the importance of both individual ideologies and systematic factors in understanding misinformation engagement.

Keywords

misinformation YouTube news use algorithmic bias nationalism prejudice partisanship

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