DIGITAL DEPENDENCY AND COGNITIVE BIAS: IMPLICATIONS FOR ONLINE HEALTH INFORMATION SEEKING BEHAVIOR

In this digital era, people increasingly depend on technology in all aspects of life. The rapid growth of digital media and online platforms has drastically transformed the way individuals seek, access, and interpret health information. At the same time, digital technologies empower users by providing easy access to information on health-related issues. However, increased digital dependency and the intensive use of online platforms may distort understanding and decision-making through cognitive biases. This paper explores digital dependency and cognitive bias in online health information seeking. Using a qualitative analysis method supported by a literature review, the study examines the reliability of digital platforms and their influence on individuals’ health-related decisions. The paper emphasises the need for e-health literacy and critical evaluation skills to reduce the negative effects of online health information-seeking behaviour. Furthermore, it addresses health anxiety and the influencing factors in e-health communication to understand the depth of digital dependency, its consequences, and associated cognitive biases.