Information we actively select online influences our beliefs more significantly than information we encounter passively. Research from the Ruhr University Bochum reveals that the “truth effect,” where familiarity enhances perceived truth, is amplified when individuals choose the information themselves. This finding, published on January 24, 2026, in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, suggests that clicking on content reinforces its credibility in our minds.
The study, led by Dr. Moritz Ingendahl from the Social Cognition Lab, involved eight online experiments with nearly 1,000 participants. In one experiment, participants evaluated the truthfulness of statements like, “The bee hummingbird is the smallest bird in the world.” The information was either presented randomly or related to themes chosen by the participants. Results showed that participants were more likely to believe reiterated information, especially when they had selected it themselves.
Ingendahl noted, “We could also demonstrate that reiteration has a bigger impact when the subjects selected the information themselves instead of when it was presented randomly.” This reinforces the idea that self-directed engagement with information increases its perceived reliability.
The implications of this research are particularly relevant in the digital age. The tendency to trust and share reiterated information on social media can lead to the rapid spread of both accurate and misleading content. The ability to curate our information sources allows individuals to influence their information landscape, often leading to echo chambers where specific beliefs are amplified.
The researchers believe that the brain processes actively selected information more effectively. “Actively searching for information entails more alertness and cognitive resources,” explains Ingendahl. Participants demonstrated better recall for information they had actively selected compared to information they encountered passively.
This phenomenon could also explain the success of fake news. As individuals engage with self-selected content, they may inadvertently bolster the credibility of misleading information. Conversely, fact-checking measures could be more effective if presented in a way that engages the user’s attention and encourages active participation.
As digital media continues to evolve, understanding the dynamics of information selection and belief formation will be crucial. This research underscores the importance of critical engagement with online content, particularly in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly through self-reinforcing networks.
In conclusion, the findings from Ruhr University Bochum shed light on the mechanisms behind belief formation in the digital age. By recognizing the power of self-selected information, individuals can better navigate the complex landscape of online content, fostering a more informed public discourse.
