Information-seeking repertoires during local crises - A qualitative study of Brazilian immigrants in Sweden

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this thesis was to investigate how Brazilian immigrants living in Sweden seek information during local crises by using different information-seeking repertoires. Theory: Based on the information-seeking repertoires approach and the uses and gratifications (U&G) perspective, the study explained the differences in information-seeking repertoires between people, especially regarding the migrant populations. Method: A qualitative approach was used for this research. In total, 16 semi-structured interviews were conducted with Brazilian immigrants who live in Sweden. The data was thematic analyzed to recognize themes that align with the participants’ perceptions about local crises. Findings: The thematic analysis of the interviews revealed that the source combination was regular, but this combination varied according to the media and sources that Brazilian immigrants use, and patterns in media usage could be identified. Brazilians’ motivations, in conjunction with the availability of information, impartiality, and accuracy, influenced considerably their trust in one source of information or media. The perceived risk of the development of the local crisis also impacted the way that participants sought, shared, and trusted information. These findings contributed to a better understating of the information-seeking repertoires of migrant populations during local crises.