
About this episode
Why do people reject information meant to help them?
In this episode of UnSpun, we explore psychological reactance — the instinct to resist control — and how it shapes our reactions to fact-checks, corrections, and even each other. From COVID-19 warning labels to social-media fatigue and holiday-table arguments, DrSturg traces how the need for freedom can make truth feel like pressure. And she offers a better way to get people to stop rejecting facts.
Topics covered:
– What psychological reactance is
– How social media architecture amplifies defiance
– Why corrections often backfire
– How to talk to friends or family who reject facts
– The emotional balance between truth and autonomy
#Reactance #Misinformation #MediaLiteracy #UnSpunPodcast #SocialMediaPsychology
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