The Psychology of Misinformation: Why We Believe and Share False Information

Why do we believe and share information that may not be accurate? Organized by the Counseling Unit, the webinar “The Psychology of Misinformation: Why We Believe and Share False Information,” held on April 28, 2026, gave students the opportunity to explore how thoughts, emotions, and biases influence the way information is perceived and shared.

Presented by Dr. Amal Bader, Associate Professor at the College of Mass Communication, the session highlighted how common thinking patterns can make misleading information seem convincing. Students explored how emotions, repetition, and social influence can affect judgment, especially in fast-paced digital environments. They gained practical insight into thinking more critically and becoming more mindful before sharing information.