Trust in Online Search Results During Uncertain Times

ABSTRACT

Drawing from the layer model of trust, this study examines what factors influence the perceived quality of search results. Participants (N = 256) conducted searches about current events and evaluated the quality of the results they received along with their trust in technology and attitudes toward the search topic. Consistent with the layer model of trust, people’s propensity to trust technology corresponded with greater perceptions of search quality, though the effect through people’s belief in Google’s search algorithm was stronger. Overall, increasingly specific assessments of layers of technology help explain why people evaluate search results to vary in quality.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Disclaimer

The views represented are those of the authors and not necessarily the organizations with which they are affiliated.

Supplementary Material

Supplemental data for this article can be accessed online at https://doi.org/10.1080/08838151.2022.2141242

Additional information

Funding

The research was supported by the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies at the University of Iowa and the Minerva Research Initiative (award number FA9550-20-1-0346).

Notes on contributors

Ashley M. Peterson

Ashley M. Peterson (PhD, The Pennsylvania State University) is a user researcher at Peloton Interactive. Her research interests include interpersonal relationships, computer-mediated communication, and user experience.

Andrew C. High

Andrew C. High (PhD, The Pennsylvania State University) is an associate professor in the Department of Communication Arts & Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University. His research considers the intersections between interpersonal and computer-mediated communication.

Raven Maragh-Lloyd

Raven Maragh-Lloyd (PhD, University of Iowa) is an assistant professor in the Program in Film and Media Studies and Department of African and African American Studies at Washington University in St. Louis. Her research examines the intersections between race, gender, and digital media culture.

Ryan Stoldt

Ryan Stoldt (PhD, University of Iowa) is an assistant professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Drake University. His research interests include digital media production, algorithmic distribution, and global media industries.

Brian Ekdale

Brian Ekdale (PhD, University of Wisconsin-Madison) is an associate professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Iowa. His research interests include global media, digital media, and media work.