Misinformation spreads faster than ever. A review in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews examines what makes some people more susceptible than others.
The Misinformation Age
False information has always existed, but digital platforms amplify its spread. Understanding who falls for misinformation could guide interventions.
Cognitive Factors
Analytic thinking, cognitive reflection, and need for cognition all predict misinformation resistance. People who think carefully are less susceptible.
But cognitive ability isn't enough - motivation matters too.
Psychological Factors
Personality, political identity, and emotional state influence susceptibility. People accept information that confirms existing beliefs or arouses strong emotions.
Neurobiological Angles
The review also considers neurobiological factors. Neurotransmitter systems, brain structure, and even pharmacological manipulations might affect susceptibility.
Understanding the full picture - cognitive, psychological, and biological - could inform comprehensive interventions.
Reference: Bhattacharyya S, et al. (2025). Cognitive, psychological, and pharmacological correlates of susceptibility to (mis)information. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews. doi: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.105818 | PMID: 40818793
Disclaimer: The image accompanying this article is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict actual experimental results, data, or biological mechanisms.