Research Article

Public Influence and Reactions in the Maelstrom of Public Opinion in Social Media Event Coverage

Yilin LiuCommunication, Media and Screen Studies, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

This study investigates the positive and negative impacts of social media, as well as the public’s behavior and psychological responses within the dynamics of public opinion. In contemporary society, the information dissemination has shifted from a simple traditional mode to an instantaneous, interactive, and multi-directional framework, eliminating barriers to information flow, garnering nationwide attention on major events, and subtly reshaping the public opinion landscape. However, the subsequent deterioration of the public opinion environment and its unpredictable direction have made it difficult to control, thus exerting a significant impact on individuals and social order. This paper examines the dissemination mechanisms of public opinion on social media and the concept of hotspot events. Utilizing content analysis, it investigates the dissemination process of specific event reports on social media platforms and explores the dynamics of public opinion. Thus, it seeks to analyze the evolution of emotional transmission in hotspot events, understand public behavioral patterns and emotional responses within the public opinion vortex, and clarify strategies for guiding public opinion and managing crises in social media events. Consequently, targeted solutions are proposed for improving public opinion guidance.

Keywords: Social Media; Opinion Leadership; Opinion Sentiment Communication; Public Behavior and Psychology; Crisis Management
Published: June 20, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.24183
Volume: CHR Vol.69
pp. 161-166
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