U of I study finds misinformation, disinformation contribute to breakups
Share this @internewscast.com

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that an individual’s media habits can influence their relationships, sometimes even leading to the termination of romantic connections.

Emily Van Duyn, a communication professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, conducted a survey with 28 individuals who had recently ended romantic relationships due to political disputes.

The participants had been in various types of relationships, from committed dating to cohabitation and long-term marriage. Their political beliefs and those of their partners included Libertarian, Conservative, Democrat, Republican, and Progressive.

The study by Van Duyn showed that disinformation and misinformation create significant rifts both in public arenas like media and social media and within personal relationships.

According to the author, “It’s significant to understand that these relationships didn’t end solely due to differing political views. They ended, at least partially, because these differences in beliefs were linked to differing realities that challenged a mutual identity and shared reality with their partners.”

Van Duyn’s research further revealed that participants’ difficulties extended beyond mere political disagreements. The presence of false information led to alternate realities that put severe strain on romantic relationships.

Van Duyn explained that people expect their partners to share a similar view of the world. This can help foster happiness and closeness in romantic partnerships. But when one partner fixates on extreme or false political information, it can cause significant tension.

“This kind of rabbit-holing behavior is often associated with online conspiracy groups or content because it drives people to persistently dig further into similar topics or theories,” Van Duyn told the U of I News Bureau. “There’s some evidence that platforms  and social media platforms in particular — are feeding this behavior because their algorithms are recommending things or queuing up videos to play next that entice viewers to continue their engagement with the information for extended periods.”

Van Duyn said one couple’s months-long relationship fell apart after they disagreed on the need to get vaccinated against the coronavirus. Another couple — who previously shared similar views — ended their 23-year marriage after one of them became immersed in conspiracy group culture.

Van Duyn found that some people built their identities around conspiracy theories, while others embraced media sources their partners found untrustworthy. This led to couples feeling forced to choose between validating their partners or validating what they believed to be true.

Van Duyn concluded that individuals’ media habits are intertwined with their relationships, and that consuming misinformation or disinformation can widen the divide between romantic partners.

You can read more about the study here.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Trump Delays Federal Surge in San Francisco, Grants Additional Time to Mayor

A planned increase in federal enforcement in San Francisco has been temporarily…

Tragic Helicopter Crash in Montana Claims Lives of Darren Bailey’s Son, Daughter-in-Law, and Two Grandchildren

In a tragic turn of events, Darren Bailey, a candidate for governor…

Tragic Accident Claims Lives of Illinois Politician Darren Bailey’s Son and Family Members

In a tragic turn of events, former Illinois state senator and Republican…

Majority Disapproves White House East Wing Demolition: New Poll Reveals 53% Opposition

A recent survey reveals that most Americans are not in favor of…

Yoders Country Market Introduces Nickel Rounding: What Shoppers Need to Know

In Bulls Gap, Tennessee, Yoders Country Market has informed its customers of…

Five Significant Renovations That Transformed the White House

President Donald Trump is embarking on an ambitious project that will see…

Experience Coca-Cola Night at the Georgia-Carolina State Fair: Enjoy Thursday Admission for Just $7

AUGUSTA, Ga. – NewsChannel 6’s Brad Means is on the scene at…

Local Star Quarterback from New Hampstead Shines in SSU Homecoming Game

SAVANNAH, Ga. – The Savannah State Tigers are gearing up for their…

NHC Predicts Tropical Storm Melissa’s Intensification by Friday

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The National Hurricane Center has warned that Tropical…

Calvary Day Baseball Team Celebrates State Championship Victory with New Rings

In a moment of triumph and celebration, the Calvary Day baseball team…

New Volunteer Coordinator Poised to Aid Carter County’s Recovery Efforts Post-Hurricane Helene

In Carter County, Tennessee, the Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) has revealed…

Tampa City Council Set to Decide on Crucial ‘Early Works’ Phase for SoHo Flood Mitigation Project

In Tampa, Florida, the City Council is poised to decide on a…