False memories for true and false vaccination information form in line with pre-existing vaccine opinions.

Abstract

Misinformation continually threatens efforts to control the COVID‐19 pandemic, with vaccine misinformation now a key concern. False memories for misinformation can influence behavioural intentions, yet little is known about the factors affecting (false) memories for vaccine‐related news items. Across two experiments (total n = 1481), this paper explores the effects of pre‐existing vaccine opinions on reported memories for true and false news items. In Study 1, participants (n = 817) were exposed to fabricated pro‐ or anti‐vaccine news items, and then asked if they have a memory of this news event having occurred. In Study 2, participants (n = 646) viewed true pro‐ or anti‐vaccine news items. News items were more likely to be remembered when they aligned with participants' pre‐existing vaccine beliefs, with stronger effects for pro‐vaccine information. We conclude by encouraging researchers to consider the role of attitudinal bias when developing interventions to reduce susceptibility to misinformation.