Investigating the Role of SNS Design on Covid-19 Information Avoidance: The Perspectives of the Stimulus-Organism-Response Theory

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations distributed important information through social networking sites (SNS). Unfortunately, the information can be hindered due to information avoidance, where users choose not to receive the information. While there is existing research on information avoidance, studies on how social media design can trigger information avoidance still need to be made available. The purpose of this study is to create a conceptual model of SNS user behavior based on the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) theory, explaining the impact of digital interactivity (communication between humans and computers) on SNS users' decisions to avoid information. Therefore, in this study, an investigation was conducted on the role of SNS design in information avoidance, using S-O-R as the theoretical framework. A total of 332 respondents were included in the study. Using Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (SEM-CB), we found that SNS design was related to information avoidance through the mediation of information overload and information anxiety. Based on these factors, it is believed that information avoidance arises as a negative response to the stimulus of using SNS, leading to user decision-making. Consequently, designers are recommended to create features that meet user needs and minimize negative impacts that could interfere with the user experience. The paper provides a more detailed explanation and discussion of the knowledge and practical implications.