Influence of media exposure on opinion formation in the situation of the spread of COVID-19

Abstract

The spread of COVID-19 infections has dramatically altered the socioeconomic environment. In order to prevent the spread of infection, policies that restrict people’s behavior are effective. The spread of COVID-19 infections has also caused significant damage to the economy. There is a trade-off between preventing the spread of infection and revitalizing the economy. In this study, we examined the impact of media contact on forming people’s opinions under these circumstances. On the one hand, mass media exposure positively affects the opinion, which emphasizes preventing infection. On the other hand, social media exposure positively affects opinion, which emphasizes economic revitalization.