Topic Matters: How Linguistic Properties can Shape Reading Behaviour in Selective Exposure Studies

Abstract

Research on selective exposure frequently relies on eye tracking to study reading behaviour, often assuming that texts across different controversial topics are comparable once basic controls are applied. This assumption is problematic if topic-dependent linguistic properties systematically shape how users read and allocate attention. We therefore examine whether such properties relate to differences in reading behaviour in selective exposure contexts. We analyse linguistic features and eye-tracking data from a laboratory study in which 68 participants searched for and read news articles on climate change and migration policy. Our results reveal systematic differences in both textual characteristics and reading behaviour across topics. These findings identify an important methodological confound in selective exposure research and highlight the need to account for topic-specific linguistic properties when interpreting eye-tracking measures and designing systems intended to mitigate biased information consumption.