Table 3 Credibility aspects and examples of these aspects
Aspects of Credibility | Justifications from “think aloud” sessions |
|---|---|
Status of the site or contributors | “I’m going to go to the Mayo Clinic website on the common cold because Mayo Clinic seems like a really kind of trustworthy place. |
“I’d probably click on flu and, oh, the first one says flu.gov. So, a government site might have some accurate information.” | |
Site design | “So usually, maybe I’ll look and see the first couple sites that come up if something sticks out to me as looking more professional, I would go with that.” |
“This kind of has cute little pictures and stuff and it shows a person with the stomach flu like they have stomach cramps.” | |
Familiarity or resonance with the participant | “Heard of this website.” |
“Familydoctor.org, health forum, meningitis. That sounds like that rings a bell.” |