Design and Validation of a Critical Media Literacy Model for Image-Based Social Networks (Case Study: Instagram) and Assessment of Its Impact on Users’ Cognitive Resilience Against Distorted Content
Keywords:
Critical Media Literacy, Instagram, Image-Centric Social Networks, Cognitive Resilience, Distorted Content, Model ValidationAbstract
The present study aimed to design and validate a critical media literacy model for Instagram and examine its role in explaining users’ cognitive resilience against distorted content. This study employed an exploratory sequential mixed-method design. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 experts in communication studies, media literacy, media psychology, and cultural studies. The interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Based on the qualitative findings and theoretical foundations, a researcher-developed Critical Media Literacy Scale was constructed. In the quantitative phase, 420 active Instagram users from Tehran were selected through multistage cluster sampling. Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, composite reliability, and average variance extracted were used to assess the psychometric properties of the instrument. Structural equation modeling was applied to examine the relationships between the dimensions of critical media literacy and cognitive resilience. The results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the critical media literacy model consisted of five major dimensions: critical analysis of visual content, evaluation of source credibility, identification of media distortion and manipulation, awareness of platform algorithms, and cognitive reflection in response to media content. Model fit indices demonstrated satisfactory model fit (CFI=0.96, TLI=0.95, RMSEA=0.056). Structural equation modeling revealed that all dimensions had significant positive effects on cognitive resilience. The strongest effect was observed for identification of media distortion and manipulation (β=0.38), followed by cognitive reflection (β=0.33). Furthermore, the dimensions of critical media literacy collectively explained 68% of the variance in users’ cognitive resilience (R²=0.68). The findings demonstrated that critical media literacy in Instagram is a multidimensional construct that plays a substantial role in enhancing users’ cognitive resilience. Competencies related to critical analysis, source evaluation, identification of media distortions, algorithmic awareness, and cognitive reflection contribute significantly to users’ ability to resist misinformation and misleading content. Therefore, the proposed model provides a valid framework for developing media literacy educational programs in contemporary digital environments.
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