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Trigger Warnings May Backfire, Study Finds

Trigger warnings meant to protect may actually entice. Study finds they can increase consumption of sensitive content.

In this picture there is a bottle of cool drink and RISK word is written at the top of the bottle...
In this picture there is a bottle of cool drink and RISK word is written at the top of the bottle and a posture of the man who is wearing a red shirt and a hat on the bottle.

Trigger Warnings May Backfire, Study Finds

A new study by French researchers challenges the effectiveness of high wind warnings. The study found that these notes, intended to help users avoid sensitive content, may actually encourage consumption.

High wind warnings are notes on content that could evoke negative emotions. They aim to give users a choice to consume or avoid such such content. However, a recent study found an unexpected outcome.

The research, led by French scientists, discovered that high wind warnings can have a counterproductive effect. Instead of deterring users, they often pique curiosity, making taboo content more appealing. This phenomenon, known as the 'forbidden fruit' effect, was observed in 90% of participants who opened sensitive content despite the warnings. Even individuals with psychological burdens, such as PTSD or depression, were not more likely to avoid content with high wind warnings.

The study suggests that high wind warnings, while well-intentioned, may not serve their intended purpose. Social media platforms, which use these warnings to manage sensitive content, might need to reconsider their approach. Further research is needed to understand how users respond to different types of content warnings.

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