What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Sarah-e1605206437616.jpg)
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
April 7, 2023
Did COVID-19 start from a “lab leak”?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
A: We don’t know for sure where SARS-CoV-2 came from, but most evidence to date supports the natural “spillover” explanation (e.g. the virus jumped from animals to humans). There may never be a “smoking gun” for SARS-CoV-2 origins. Pandemic preparedness efforts should focus on preventing both natural and man-made spillovers of pathogens. It’s 3+ years Read more…
February 10, 2023
Our paper wins the 2022 Editor in Chief Award from the American Journal of Health Promotion!!
Uncertainty and Misinformation Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We are THRILLED to announce that our paper “Fight Like a Nerdy Girl: The Dear Pandemic Playbook for Combating Health Misinformation” won the 2022 Editor in Chief Award from the American Journal of Health Promotion!! 🤩🙌 “My Editor in Chief Award winning paper this year comes from that KWBW section and was written by self-proclaimed Read more…
January 23, 2023
Did you know it is National News Literacy Week?!!!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
It is! This week marks the 4th annual National News Literacy Week during which The News Literacy Project will be sharing tools and resources that can help us all become better at navigating news information and discuss how to rebuild trust in news media! TL; DR: Check out the events they have planned and sign Read more…
November 25, 2022
Does turkey make me sleepy?
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
October 29, 2022
How can I tell if a news source is legit or not?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Follow five steps for vetting news sources from The News Literacy Project! TL:DR; Five steps include-web search the source, look for reporting standards, check for transparency, see how errors are handled, read a few news stories from that source. It can feel tricky to determine whether something you read online is from a legitimate Read more…
October 27, 2022
What is prebunking?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
October 9, 2022
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Did COVID-19 start from a “lab leak”?
Uncertainty and MisinformationA: We don’t know for sure where SARS-CoV-2 came from, but most evidence to date supports the natural “spillover” explanation (e.g. the virus jumped from animals to humans). There may never be a “smoking gun” for SARS-CoV-2 origins. Pandemic preparedness efforts should focus on preventing both natural and man-made spillovers of pathogens. It’s 3+ years Read more…
Our paper wins the 2022 Editor in Chief Award from the American Journal of Health Promotion!!
Uncertainty and Misinformation Women in STEM![Jennifer Beam Dowd Ph.D.](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Jennifer-Beam-Dowd-PhD.-e1595010241109.png)
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We are THRILLED to announce that our paper “Fight Like a Nerdy Girl: The Dear Pandemic Playbook for Combating Health Misinformation” won the 2022 Editor in Chief Award from the American Journal of Health Promotion!! 🤩🙌 “My Editor in Chief Award winning paper this year comes from that KWBW section and was written by self-proclaimed Read more…
January 23, 2023
Did you know it is National News Literacy Week?!!!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
It is! This week marks the 4th annual National News Literacy Week during which The News Literacy Project will be sharing tools and resources that can help us all become better at navigating news information and discuss how to rebuild trust in news media! TL; DR: Check out the events they have planned and sign Read more…
November 25, 2022
Does turkey make me sleepy?
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
October 29, 2022
How can I tell if a news source is legit or not?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Follow five steps for vetting news sources from The News Literacy Project! TL:DR; Five steps include-web search the source, look for reporting standards, check for transparency, see how errors are handled, read a few news stories from that source. It can feel tricky to determine whether something you read online is from a legitimate Read more…
October 27, 2022
What is prebunking?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
October 9, 2022
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
We are THRILLED to announce that our paper “Fight Like a Nerdy Girl: The Dear Pandemic Playbook for Combating Health Misinformation” won the 2022 Editor in Chief Award from the American Journal of Health Promotion!! 🤩🙌 “My Editor in Chief Award winning paper this year comes from that KWBW section and was written by self-proclaimed Read more…
Did you know it is National News Literacy Week?!!!
Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/SimanekAmanda2022.5-1-e1663247212601.jpg)
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
It is! This week marks the 4th annual National News Literacy Week during which The News Literacy Project will be sharing tools and resources that can help us all become better at navigating news information and discuss how to rebuild trust in news media! TL; DR: Check out the events they have planned and sign Read more…
November 25, 2022
Does turkey make me sleepy?
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
October 29, 2022
How can I tell if a news source is legit or not?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Follow five steps for vetting news sources from The News Literacy Project! TL:DR; Five steps include-web search the source, look for reporting standards, check for transparency, see how errors are handled, read a few news stories from that source. It can feel tricky to determine whether something you read online is from a legitimate Read more…
October 27, 2022
What is prebunking?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
October 9, 2022
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
It is! This week marks the 4th annual National News Literacy Week during which The News Literacy Project will be sharing tools and resources that can help us all become better at navigating news information and discuss how to rebuild trust in news media! TL; DR: Check out the events they have planned and sign Read more…
Does turkey make me sleepy?
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation![Lauren Hale Ph.D. MA](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Lauren-Hale-PhD-e1595017739402.png)
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
October 29, 2022
How can I tell if a news source is legit or not?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Follow five steps for vetting news sources from The News Literacy Project! TL:DR; Five steps include-web search the source, look for reporting standards, check for transparency, see how errors are handled, read a few news stories from that source. It can feel tricky to determine whether something you read online is from a legitimate Read more…
October 27, 2022
What is prebunking?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
October 9, 2022
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/lindsey-j-leininger-tuck-faculty-600-900_600_900_75_s-e1705250110628.jpg)
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
October 29, 2022
How can I tell if a news source is legit or not?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Follow five steps for vetting news sources from The News Literacy Project! TL:DR; Five steps include-web search the source, look for reporting standards, check for transparency, see how errors are handled, read a few news stories from that source. It can feel tricky to determine whether something you read online is from a legitimate Read more…
October 27, 2022
What is prebunking?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
October 9, 2022
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation VideosThose Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Image-from-iOS-3.jpg)
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
October 29, 2022
How can I tell if a news source is legit or not?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Follow five steps for vetting news sources from The News Literacy Project! TL:DR; Five steps include-web search the source, look for reporting standards, check for transparency, see how errors are handled, read a few news stories from that source. It can feel tricky to determine whether something you read online is from a legitimate Read more…
October 27, 2022
What is prebunking?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
October 9, 2022
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
How can I tell if a news source is legit or not?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/SimanekAmanda2022.5-1-e1663247212601.jpg)
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Follow five steps for vetting news sources from The News Literacy Project! TL:DR; Five steps include-web search the source, look for reporting standards, check for transparency, see how errors are handled, read a few news stories from that source. It can feel tricky to determine whether something you read online is from a legitimate Read more…
October 27, 2022
What is prebunking?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
October 9, 2022
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
A: Follow five steps for vetting news sources from The News Literacy Project! TL:DR; Five steps include-web search the source, look for reporting standards, check for transparency, see how errors are handled, read a few news stories from that source. It can feel tricky to determine whether something you read online is from a legitimate Read more…
What is prebunking?
Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Sarah-e1605206437616.jpg)
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
October 9, 2022
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
Tl;DR: Prebunking is an effective strategy to combat misinformation. Prebunking makes people aware in advance that they might be misled and teaches folks ways to recognize misinformation at the get-go. Prebunking, sometimes called attitudinal inoculation, alerts people in advance that misinformation and disinformation might be coming their way. Prebunking is an effective “heads up” for Read more…
⚠️ A critical review of Florida’s recent vaccine analysis ⚠️
Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/87C52E19-1123-46DC-9F02-260622D3F945_1_201_a-1.jpeg)
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
August 10, 2022
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
Florida recently announced the results of an analysis that they performed, claiming the results show “an increased risk of cardiac-related death among men 18-39” for the mRNA vaccines. Based on this analysis, they recommend this group not receive these vaccines. This is a bold recommendation. Is it justified? ✅ Short answer: no. A few things Read more…
What is confirmation bias? What is motivated reasoning? How do they impact the spread of misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/SimanekAmanda2022.5-1-e1663247212601.jpg)
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
July 7, 2022
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
A: Confirmation bias happens when we accept information that confirms our pre-existing ideas or beliefs, but ignore or question information that does not. Motivated reasoning happens when we only seek out information that confirms what we already think is true. Both ways of distorted thinking can lead us to share information without critically assessing it Read more…
Busting Vasectomy Myths!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation![](https://thosenerdygirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Sarah-e1605206437616.jpg)
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…
After the US Supreme Court decision, many more people are seeking out vasectomy. Sadly, a ton of misinformation is circulating around the interwebs and beyond. Buckle up and let’s bust some vasectomy myths with truth bombs! First off, what is a vasectomy? A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts or blocks the tubes in Read more…