Impact of Social Media on Risk Perception And Preventive Behaviors Toward Covid-19 In Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background & Aims: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an unprecedented pandemic in which social media can play a pivotal role in shaping public risk perception and enhances compliance with preventive behaviors. This study aimed to assess the impact of social media on risk perception and preventive behaviors toward COVID- 19 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methods: The study was conducted through a social media web-based survey on the adult population (872 responses). It comprised four parts: Socio-demographic Characteristics and Scales of Social Media Exposure to COVID-19 Risk Information, Perceived Role of Social Media during COVID-19 Pandemic; Risk Perception, and Preventive Behaviors.