The Theory of Inoculation Practice: Content Analysis of Instagram @Socialconnect.id to Counter Mental Health Misinformation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37535/105005220263Keywords:
Instagram, Inoculation Theory, Misinformation, Mental Health Campaign, Social MediaAbstract
The inoculation theory explains that early exposure to weak arguments and their refutations can build cognitive antibodies that make individuals more resistant to misinformation attacks in the future. Thus, the inoculation theory acts as a protective mechanism that prepares audiences to proactively combat misinformation. This study aims to analyze the application of inoculation theory in combating misinformation in mental health campaigns on Instagram @socialconnect.id. Using a qualitative approach through content analysis, this study examines how the elements of threat and refutational preemption are applied in the campaign strategy. The results show that @socialconnect.id consistently presents stigma and common misconceptions as a form of threat, then refutes them with systematic counterarguments based on scientific data and expert opinions, delivered in an empathetic manner. This strategy has proven effective in building the audience's cognitive resilience, making them better prepared to reject misinformation while increasing their critical awareness of mental health issues. This study concludes that the application of inoculation theory in the @socialconnect.id campaign is effective in reducing the impact of misinformation, combating stigma, and improving mental health literacy among the public. Despite its limitations in terms of the scope of the study and the number of informants, this study provides conceptual and practical contributions to the development of a digital media based mental health campaign.
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