Cuando los jóvenes deciden no informarse. dinámicas de un no a las noticias en redes sociales

Rocío Gómez; Cristóbal Benavides

doi:10.31921/doxacom.3531

Authors

Dr. Rocío Gómez University of the Andes, Chile https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1602-3357
Dr. Cristóbal Benavides University of the Andes, Chile https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5573-6785

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31921/doxacom.3531

Keywords:

news avoidance, young people, news practice, news consumption

Abstract

In the context of information overload, where audiences have multiple ways of accessing information, news avoidance has become an increasingly frequent activity, particularly among young people. Although there is concern about its growth, further evidence is still needed not only to characterize this practice but also to consider other variables related to news consumption on social media. In this regard, this study aims to analyze news avoidance among young people aged 18 to 24 in the Metropolitan Region of Chile. The results of 385 surveys show that consistent avoidance is infrequent; instead, this group tends to distance itself from news content in a selective and occasional, particularly when news perceived as highly negative or when it affects their mental health. To do so, they develop specific actions on social media, ranging from scrolling past content to unfollowing news media accounts. These findings contribute to the understanding of news avoidance from a self-identification perspective, distinguishing it from levels of news consumption while considering incidental news. In addition, the study provides new evidence from Latin America, a region where this topic has been scarcely addressed.

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Author Biographies

Dr. Rocío Gómez, University of the Andes, Chile

Rocío Gómez is a journalist and holds a PhD in Communication (Universidad de los Andes, Chile). She is currently a professor at the School of Communication of the Universidad de los Andes, Santiago de Chile.

Her research interests are focused on audiences’ news consumption on social media. In her doctoral dissertation, she studied incidental news consumption and news avoidance among young people. She is also part of a Latin American research network focused on understanding the news practices of communication students.
Dr. Cristóbal Benavides, University of the Andes, Chile

Cristóbal Benavides is a Full Professor at the School of Communication of the Universidad de los Andes, Santiago de Chile. He holds a Master in Media Management and a PhD in Communication (University of Navarra). He has been Visiting Professor at different Universities.

His research interests are focused on Media Management, Innovation, Engagement and Leadership. He has published scientific papers in Chile and in international journals, chapters in books and handbooks edited by prestigious publishers. Professor Benavides is a regular consultant for the media industry, and he had developed statistical reports and professional training courses for different actors of the field.

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