Participants' social contagion can be influenced by warnings that a speaker may not be a good source of information, but the timing of the warning is important, ________.
A) warnings are most effective if they occur before the presentation of the erroneous material
B) warnings are most effective if they occur after the presentation of the erroneous material
C) warnings are most effective if they occur during the presentation of the erroneous material
D) but only if the participant perceives the person providing the warning as having more power

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Warnings are most effective at reducing the spread of misinformation when they are given before the audience is exposed to the erroneous material. This preemptive approach helps to prime the audience's skepticism, making them more critical of the information they are about to receive.

Participants' Social Contagion Can Be Influenced by Warnings That a Speaker