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An application of media and network multiplexity theory to the structure and perceptions of information environments in hurricane evacuation
Author(s) -
Lee Seungyoon,
Benedict Bailey C.,
Ge Yue ‘Gurt’,
MurrayTuite Pamela,
Ukkusuri Satish V.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of the association for information science and technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.903
H-Index - 145
eISSN - 2330-1643
pISSN - 2330-1635
DOI - 10.1002/asi.24456
Subject(s) - consistency (knowledge bases) , perception , perspective (graphical) , service (business) , computer science , data science , operations research , psychology , business , marketing , engineering , neuroscience , artificial intelligence
Understanding how information use contributes to uncertainties surrounding evacuation decisions is crucial during disasters. While literature increasingly establishes that people consult multiple information sources in disaster situations, little is known about the patterns in which multiple media and personal network sources are combined simultaneously and sequentially across decision‐making phases. We address this gap using survey data collected from households in Jacksonville, Florida affected by 2016's Hurricane Matthew. Results direct attention to perceived consistency of information as a key predictor of uncertainty regarding hurricane impact and evacuation logistics. Frequently utilizing National Weather Service, national and local TV channels, and personal network contacts contributed to higher perceived consistency of information, while the use of other local and online sources was associated with lower perceived consistency. Furthermore, combining a larger number of media and official sources predicted higher levels of perceived information consistency. One's perception of information amount did not significantly explain uncertainty. This study contributes to the theorizing of individuals' information environment from the perspective of media and network multiplexity and provides practical implications regarding the need of information coordination for improved evacuation decision‐making.