Pengaruh Cyberchondria terhadap Help-Seeking Behavior Intention pada Dewasa Awal

Abstract

Emerging adulthood is a crucial phase in development characterized by the search for independence, including in health decision-making. In the digital age, the internet has become a primary source of health information, but often, inaccurate information can lead to confusion and anxiety, a phenomenon known as cyberchondria. This study aims to analyze the impact of cyberchondria on help-seeking behavior intention in early adults, with a sample of 385 respondents from Medan City. Data were collected using the Cyberchondria Severity Scale (CSS) and the General Help Seeking Questionnaire (GHSQ) through Google Forms and analyzed using simple linear regression. The results show that cyberchondria has a significant effect on help-seeking behavior intention (p = 0.007), although its contribution is weak (R² = 1.9%), indicating that other factors have a stronger influence. Descriptive data also reveal that the majority of respondents prefer informal assistance over formal help.