Message Strategies for Misinformation Correction

This chapter provides a review of current research on message strategies for misinformation correction. It assesses the effects and features of argument-based messages, emotional appeals, and narratives in this context. Argument-based messages aim to influence audiences using factual statements, empirical data, and expert opinions. The chapter reviews literature that examines the effects of these design features of argument-based messages in misinformation correction. Over half a century of research on inoculation theory suggests a more proactive approach to misinformation correction. Fact-checking has emerged as a popular and distinct message strategy in contemporary journalism to correct misinformation. Several theories shed light on the link between emotions and misinformation susceptibility. Narratives can convey persuasive arguments implicitly through the causal links implied by story events. The efficacy of narrative correction depends on a range of audience factors, such as their prior knowledge or issue involvement.