The Susceptibility of Young Chinese Users of Information Cocoon on the Xiaohongshu Platform

Abstract

The Xiaohongshu platform is a recently developed powerful online media platform in China. Its primary method of using algorithms to push information encourages the formation of the information cocoon. Based on the similar researches of selective exposure and echo chamber, this study has developed the exposure and acceptance mechanism of information. Using the platform's young Chinese users as a representative, this research aimed to test the users' susceptibility using the new information cocoon susceptibility scale. The scale was divided into six dimensions including information content, information channel, information attitude stability, information intervention, social network, and algorithmic literacy. By recovering and analyzing the questionnaires, this study found that the Chinese young users' susceptibility to the Xiaohongshu platform is generally significant. Specific manifestations may include exposure to information content homogenized, lack of diversity of information channels, tending to be influenced by information and long-term communication with a fixed group, and low personal algorithmic literacy. The outcome probably indicates that the Xiaohongshu users are less resistant to the information cocoon and are deeply affected by it.