The Role of Chatbot AI as an Intermediary for Processing Health Misinformation

Seo, Subin

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132996 Copy

Description

Title

The Role of Chatbot AI as an Intermediary for Processing Health Misinformation

Author(s)

Seo, Subin

Issue Date

2026-03-12

Keyword(s)

• Chatbot AI
• Health misinformation
• Health anxiety
• Belief accuracy

Abstract

Introduction. This study examines whether chatbot AI can support individuals in processing health misinformation by improving belief accuracy and reducing health anxiety when misleading or false health information is encountered in daily life. Method. This study utilized a survey method to measure participants’ health anxiety and belief accuracy, with a total of 51 participants. First, participants were shown a short form video about cancer that contains misinformation. They were then provided with an AI response addressing the misinformation. Within the survey, participants reported their levels of health anxiety and belief accuracy both before and after reading the AI response. Analysis. Pre-test and post-test scores were compared using Wilcoxon signed rank tests to assess changes in health anxiety and belief accuracy. Results. Belief accuracy increased significantly after exposure to the AI response (p < .05), whereas health anxiety did not show a statistically significant change. Nevertheless, the mean level of health anxiety decreased from 20.51 to 19.96. Conclusion(s). Chatbot AI may effectively correct health related misbeliefs, but brief exposure appears insufficient to produce immediate emotional change.

Publisher

iSchools

Series/Report Name or Number

iConference 2026 Proceedings

Type of Resource

Other

Genre of Resource

Conference Poster

Language

eng

Permalink

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132996

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2026 is held by Subin Seo. Copyright permissions, when appropriate, must be obtained directly from the authors.

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