Strategies for information source selection: A focus group study on young people in Europe

Abstract

The article presents findings from a study that examined how young people select, consult and evaluate multiple information sources to validate the information they seek. It contributes to the field of information behaviour and helps in designing better information services. Eight focus group interviews were carried out in four different locations across Europe. A total of 37 young people participated through purposive sampling. The study illustrates participants’ complex information pathways through which they consult multiple sources to reach the most trusted information source. The content analysis of the data showed that ascribed cognitive authority and affective factors such as confidentiality, privacy and empathy strongly determine the selection of an information source. The study observes the young participants’ dependency on networked and human sources for ease of access and reluctance to rely on mainstream media and textual information. The study has strong practical implications for designing information services and developing communication materials targeted at young people.