Readers perceive deceptive graphics as less credible. (December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Geidner, Nick; Cameron, Jaclyn
• Is Part Of: Newspaper research journal. Volume 38:Number 4(2017)
• Page Start: 473
• Page End: 483
• Publication Date: 2017-12
• Subjects: media effects -- quantitative -- experiment -- ANOVA -- newspaper -- online news -- United States of America -- graphic integrity -- visual communication -- recall -- information graphic; Newspapers -- Periodicals; Journalism -- Periodicals; 070.172
• DOI: 10.1177/0739532917739878
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0739-5329

Abstract

This study examines individuals' understanding and judgment of news information graphics. Specifically, an experimental design was used to examine the effects of deceptive design practices on the amount of time the user spent on the graphic, information recall and perceptions of credibility. These effects were examined in a general and political news context. In the sample (N = 239), participants recalled more information from the deceptive graphic and found it less credible than the non-biased graphic.