Abstract
ABSTRACT Instagram’s sensitive-content screens seek to minimize engagement with negative content by blurring sensitive images and providing a warning. However, the very design of sensitive-content screens may elicit uncertainty/curiosity and prompt information-seeking behaviors: congruent with the information-gap hypothesis. To test this idea experimentally, we presented participants with screened negative images accompanied by a brief, detailed, or no content description, during a simulated Instagram task. Participants viewed screens one at a time and uncovered at their discretion. In line with our predictions, people uncovered screens irrespective of description type, but did so most often with no description. Most participants indicated that knowing what the sensitive content contained bolstered their ability to make an informed decision. These results have implications; information provided alongside sensitive-content screens can influence engagement and therefore should be considered as part of sensitive-content guidelines.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
