The role of trust in information sources in health communication: a systematic review

Abstract

The role of trust in information sources has gained significant attention in the field of health communication. The information explosion and rapid increase in diversity of information sources, particularly with the advent of the Internet and social media, has led to concerns among the public regarding the credibility of information. This trust crisis is more salient regarding health information than others. Trust in health misinformation and disinformation can mislead individuals’ health decisions, as was seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research reviewed studies on trust in health information sources and found two research patterns regarding this question, one-source approach, and multiple-sources approach. This systematic review also organized which information sources and why particular sources could gain the most attention. The overall mechanism of affecting trust in information sources was summarized. Discussion about the theoretical contributions and suggestions for further relevant research was also included.