Understanding the Chinese public’s risk perception and information-seeking behavior regarding genetically modified foods: the role of social media social capital

Abstract

In attempting to understand how the current social media environment foments risk perception and information seeking regarding genetically modified foods, this study integrated the risk information seeking and social capital models. Specifically, this study developed a research model consisting of bridging and bonding social capital, risk perception, affective response, perceived information-gathering capacity, and intention of GMO-related risk information seeking. Based on a stratified quota sample of 1,370 citizens collected in Jiangsu Province, China, this study found that bridging and bonding social capital directly and indirectly predicted risk information seeking regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The indirect paths were mediated by risk perception, affective response, and perceived information-gathering capacity. The implications of these findings were discussed.