Health Communication in an Era of Disinformation: Perceived Source Credibility Among Transgender and Gender Diverse Individuals

• Published in: Journal of health communication Vol. 29; no. 7; pp. 432 - 439
• Main Authors: Ciszek, E., Dermid, Gerold, Shah, Mansi, Mocarski, Richard, Hope, Debra, Woodruff, Nathan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Routledge 02-07-2024; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Adult; Communication; Credibility; Female; Gender; Health Communication - methods; Health education; Health information; Humans; Legislation; Male; Middle Aged; Qualitative Research; Transgender persons; Transgender Persons - psychology; Transgender Persons - statistics & numerical data; Trust; Young Adult
• ISSN: 1081-0730; 1087-0415; 1087-0415
• DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2024.2361362

This study examines perceived source credibility of health information in a moment of TGD health disinformation. Through thematic analysis of in-depth interviews with 30 transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals, findings suggest health information is marred by anti-TGD legislation, a sociopolitical force that bleeds into health information spaces. Disinformation and TGD health communication are intertwined in complex ways, whereby disinformation can undermine trust in healthcare institutions, lead to harmful behaviors, and contribute to the spread of diseases. Health communication practitioners need to center the safety and humanity of TGD people, addressing TGD health disinformation.