PERCEPTIONS OF KNOWLEDGE, ACTUAL KNOWLEDGE, AND INFORMATION SEARCH BEHAVIOR

This study explored determinants of perceptions of knowledge and the i nfluence of perceived knowledge on information search behavior. Hypoth esized determinants included actual knowledge, personal relevance of t he topic area, peer reference group, and self-esteem. The information search process was believed to be influenced by perceived knowledge, l evel of self-monitoring of the individual, and the public versus priva te nature of the information environment. A theoretical model illustra ting these relationships was tested in the substantive domains of nutr ition and birth control using EQS. Results indicated a low corresponde nce between actual and perceived knowledge, a negative relationship be tween perceived knowledge and information search behavior, and an assi milation effect between peer reference group and perceived knowledge. (C) 1995 Academic Press, Inc.