The Mediating Effect of Information Literacy on the Relationship Between Information Anxiety and Information-Seeking Behavior of Allied Health Students

Information anxiety is a growing concern among students as they navigate increasingly complex digital information environments. Although information literacy and information-seeking behavior are recognized as important to academic success, limited studies have examined how information literacy mediates the relationship between information anxiety and information-seeking behavior among allied health students. This study examined the mediating effect of information literacy on the relationship between information anxiety and information-seeking behavior among allied health students in Davao City. Using a non-experimental quantitative research design, the study surveyed 360 allied health students selected through stratified random sampling from higher education institutions in Davao City. Standardized questionnaires measured information anxiety, information-seeking behavior, and information literacy, and data were analyzed using the mean, the Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient, and mediation analysis. Findings revealed a moderate level of information anxiety and high levels of information-seeking behavior and information literacy. Significant relationships were found among the three variables, indicating that information anxiety, information literacy, and information-seeking behavior are interrelated. Furthermore, information literacy partially mediated the relationship between information anxiety and information-seeking behavior, suggesting that students’ information literacy competencies play a key role in how they manage information-related challenges and engage in effective information-seeking. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening information literacy through structured library instruction, training, and academic support to enhance students’ ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively.