Knowledge Gap and Digital Media: Effect of Socio Demographics and eHealth literacy on Perceived Trust in Online Health Information among Female Users

Abstract

This article make an addition to the growing body of research that explores the significance of demographic factors (Age, Education level and Income) on perceived trust in health information , specifically in the context of knowledge gap hypothesis. A questionnaire-based survey collected data from female students studying at different levels and belonging to different age and income groups. The level of perceived trust in online health information was measured on the bases of these socio demographic differences. Findings revealed that eHealth literacy is a determinant of the perceived trust in online health information (OHI). However, result demonstrate no significant impact of independent variable i-e socio-demographics (age, education level and income) on the perceived trust of users in online sources which shows that digital media technologies are bridging the knowledge gap between haves and haven’t.