The impact of Alarmist and Fake News on Consumers' Economic Behaviour: An Explanatory Model Based on Data from Romania
The impact of Alarmist and Fake News on Consumers' Economic Behaviour: An Explanatory Model Based on Data from Romania

Summary/Abstract: This article examines the impact of alarmist and fake economic news on consumer behaviour in the context of the growing prevalence of fake news. The study is structured into two components: a theoretical section addressing the mechanisms of misinformation dissemination and its effects, and an empirical section based on a survey conducted on a nationally controlled quota-based sociodemographic sample (N = 1,066). The research aims to investigate how media exposure, the perception of fake news, information credibility, and concern influence economic behaviour. The analysis employs structural equation modelling (SEM) and distinguishes three types of responses: behavioural reactions, consumption reduction, and saving behaviour. The findings highlight the central role of concern as a key determinant of economic behaviour, as well as the existence of distinct response mechanisms depending on the type of behaviour analysed. Overall, the study underscores the complex relationship between misinformation and economic decision-making.

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