Algorithmic Inoculation Against Misinformation: How to Build Cognitive Immunity Against Misinformation

The benefits of generative AI tools come with the risk of misleading users and radicalizing existing societal biases. This study examined the effects of inoculation treatment on users' attitudes and behaviors by testing a misinformation inoculation model. Based on inoculation theory, it discusses the cognitive mechanisms underpinning the effects of inoculation messages presented by AI chatbots by addressing how users construe inoculation messages and how they influence users' resistance against misinformation. This study renders theoretical rationales and empirical evidence for cognitive immunity by clarifying how the theory can be extended to misinformation and how the framework can be practically implemented.