Perceived risks and use of social media for COVID-19 information

PurposeThis study aimed to examine the impact of perceived risks of COVID-19 and users’ intention to continually use social media for COVID-19 information, thereby revealing social media users’ perceptions and behaviors regarding the pandemic.Design/methodology/approachThe Health Belief Model was used to develop the research model. Data were collected from social media users in Korea using an online survey.FindingsThe findings showed that social media users’ intention to continually use social media for COVID-19 information explained 46.5% of the variance in their perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers. The degree of impact and relationships varied across the constructs. Two age groups were examined, and it transpired that perceived risks and perceived use were more highly recognized by young users than old users.Research limitations/implicationsThis study focused on Korean social media users, providing valuable insights but limiting its generalizability. The proposed research model and methodology can include participants from various countries or cultures to enhance global relevance and diversified perspectives on how perceived risks impact social media use for health information.Practical implicationsThis study’s findings can be used to provide tailored health information services to those with different levels of perceived risks, social media use, and different age groups.Originality/valueThis study adopted the Health Belief Model to understand users’ perceptions of COVID-19 information on social media and examined users’ intentions to continue using social media as a channel for COVID-19 information.