Part4The Psychology of Health Misinformation During Deadly OutbreaksUnderstanding why people believe false health claims is just as important as correcting them. During outbreaks like Nipah virus, misinformation does not spread randomly — it follows predictable psychological patterns rooted in fear, uncertainty, and the human need for control.1. Fear Makes the Brain Seek Simple AnswersDeadly diseases trigger:Fear of deathFear of isolationFear of hospitalsFear of the unknownWhen fear rises, the human brain naturally
Part4 The Psychology of Health Misinformation During Deadly Outbreaks Understanding why people believe false health claims is just as important as correcting them. During outbreaks like Nipah virus, misinformation does not spread randomly — it follows predictable psychological patterns rooted in fear, uncertainty, and the human need for control. 1. Fear Makes the Brain Seek Simple Answers Deadly diseases trigger: Fear of death Fear of isolation Fear of hospitals Fear of the unknown When fear rises, the human brain naturally looks for: Quick solutions Simple actions Familiar rituals Claims like “sneezing at night” or “drill exercise” feel easy and controllable, even if they are false. 2. Illusion of Control: “At Least I’m Doing Something” Psychologists call this the illusion of control. People feel safer when they believe: Their actions can stop the disease They are not helpless They can avoid hospitals Even meaningless actions can feel powerful when people are scared. This ...