Exploring the impact of online misinformation on ideological polarisation and institutional distrust: an integrative review and strategic framework for counteraction

Abstract

Online misinformation is the unintentional spread of false information on the internet. It attracts growing public and academic attention and concern owing to its general risk as well as the threat it poses to sustaining democratic integrity, quality journalism, and an informed public, particularly in times of crises. This review streamlines the larger concerns associated with online misinformation towards two issues (ideological polarisation and institutional distrust) to explore their real-world impact. Through an integrative review of current literature, this study critically analyses and synthesises findings from 157 publications and generates the following themes: 1. Online misinformation and ideological polarisation 2. Online misinformation and institutional distrust 3. Online disinformation: Typology and relevance 4. Strategic counteraction of online misinformation. Thematic Analysis further suggests a tri-directional relationship between online mis-dis-information, ideological polarisation, and institutional distrust. Finally, the review presents the tri-directional relationship through a proposed conceptual pathway alongside a strategic framework that outlines the measures and regulatory directives to counteract the spread of online misinformation and its subsequent consequences.