The Lack Of Digital Literacy On Instagram: A Case Study Of Reactive Behavior Based On Clickbait

Abstract

This study analyzes the phenomenon of limited digital literacy on the social media platform Instagram, particularly concerning users’ tendency to respond emotionally to provocative titles (clickbait) without fully reading and comprehending the content. Employing a qualitative case study approach, the research highlights behavioral patterns in which users prioritize quick responses over critical understanding. The findings reveal that the primary factor contributing to this phenomenon is the attention economy, where users are accustomed to instant access to information and feel compelled to engage immediately in public discourse. The implications of this behavior include the proliferation of misinformation and the intensification of opinion polarization. This study recommends the need for more structured digital literacy education and the implementation of platform features that encourage users to engage with content before interacting. The tendency to react without thoroughly evaluating content contributes to an increasingly fragmented digital space where echo chambers thrive. This study recommends the need for more structured digital literacy education, focusing on critical thinking and the importance of evaluating content before sharing or reacting. Additionally, it suggests the implementation of platform features that encourage users to engage with content in a more thoughtful and responsible manner, helping mitigate the spread of misinformation.