This study investigates how language, identity, and structural inequality shape susceptibility to contraceptive misinformation and disinformation among English- and Spanish-speaking populations in Louisiana. Grounded in the socioecological model and environmental health framework, the project explores how individual cognition and emotion, community-level norms, and broader information environments influence engagement with misinformation. The study responds to persistent disparities in contraceptive access and the rising influence of digital misinformation, especially among historically marginalized groups.

We propose a four-phase, mixed-methods research design. In Phase 1, we will engage community partners through structured dialogues to identify the most salient forms of contraceptive misinformation and map trusted and distrusted information sources. These insights will inform Phase 2, which uses social listening techniques and the Brandwatch platform to systematically monitor contraceptive misinformation across English- and Spanish-language internet spaces. A pilot will precede a six-month data collection period, followed by community validation. In Phase 3, we will conduct vignette-based qualitative group discussions stratified by age and language, exploring how participants interpret and respond to misinformation claims. Phase 4 will return preliminary findings to community partners to validate results and co-create recommendations for practice and policy.

The research team is rooted in reproductive justice, public health, and qualitative research, with strong ties to Louisiana communities. Results will be disseminated through academic publications and community channels, with the goal of informing equity-driven programs, health communication strategies, and policy advocacy. This work contributes to understanding how language and context mediate vulnerability to reproductive health misinformation.