Exploring the determinants of health information avoidance behavior: A perspective from the stimulus organism response (SOR) Model

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the key factors that predict health information avoidance behavior. Using a Stimulus Organism Response (SOR) framework, we developed a model on health information avoidance. The model was tested with the structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings of the study showed that IN had a positive significant influence on avoidance behavior. However, RP had a positive but statistically non-significant influence on avoidance behavior. Our study highlights that improving individuals’ health literacy skills can be helpful in coping with avoidance behavior. The study also highlights that much of the work has been done on information-seeking behaviors, but the aspect of information avoidance has been less explored. Therefore, it recommends more studies to be conducted in this domain of area in order to thoroughly understand the contributing factors to information avoidance, particularly health information avoidance. Future research should focus on the environmental and psychological determinants of avoidance behavior in individuals.