The Effects of News Media on Tourist Preventive Behaviors During Infectious Disease Outbreaks: The Mediating Effect of Risk Perception

Abstract

During outbreak crisis, the information conveyed through news media can significantly influence tourists' perceptions of risk, ultimately shaping their preventive behaviors. Previous studies have indicated that research on this influence is still insufficient and relatively new. This study investigates how exposure to news media affects risk perception and preventive behaviors among Malaysian tourists. It also explores whether risk perception mediates the relationship between news media exposure and preventive behavior. Using cross-sectional design, 250 questionnaires were collected from tourists in the Klang Valley. The analysis using the PLS-SEM technique has revealed that news media exposure and personal-level risk perception are the important predictors to explain tourist's preventive behavior during pandemic. Additionally, personal risk perception plays a significant role in mediating the relationship between news exposure and behavior. These findings offer insights for policymakers to better understand and address tourists' perceptions and behaviors during outbreaks crisis.