Validation of an instrument on exposure of migrant communities to hate speech in the Chilean media ecosystem: preliminary results

Abstract

Introduction: Research reports an increase in the forms of cyber hate towards migrant groups in digital contexts. However, few tools have been developed to collect the experiences of those who face such aggression. Methodology: The objective is to validate an instrument designed to assess the extent of exposure to hate speech. Additionally, it aims to examine the consequential impact on the engagement and involvement of migrant communities within the media landscape of Chile. The Delphi method, incorporating expert judgment and cognitive interviews, is implemented in this study. A meticulously crafted questionnaire comprising 26 items is applied to a pilot sample of 453 migrants residing in Chile, 51% of whom are between 30 and 59 years old, 58% are female and 60% come from Venezuela. Results: A Cronbach's Alpha of 0.95 is reached and it is found that 62% of respondents have received hate messages through Instagram (56%) and Facebook (45%), linked to their nationality (33%) and under the framing of security (43%), experiencing discomfort (53%) and hopelessness (56%). Consequently, 41% "sometimes" deleted media accounts from their digital information diet and only 7% "frequently" participate in media environments. Discussion: It is warned that cyber hate towards migrant people could produce disinformation, by news avoidance, and affect the media participation of these communities. Conclusions: A validated questionnaire was acquired to gather insights into the exposure of migrants when confronted with hate speech and its possible effects.