Gender and linguistic distinctions of information needs in the Chinese context: Conscious and formalized levels

Gender difference is a new perspective on understanding the levels of information needs proposed by Taylor in 1968. Drawn from Ruthven's research methodology, gender differences between conscious and formalized information needs using 4000 postings to four major online discussion topics were analyzed. Descriptive statistical analysis was based on text length and vocabulary usage. The analysis confirmed Ruthven's conclusion in the Chinese context that the statements describing conscious information needs are more narrative with more emotional and sensitive words. Females, on the other hand, frequently express their information needs consciously. Problematic situations generate information needs. Consequently, understanding the information needs levels should consider additional contextual aspects, and the initial stages of information needs are essentially the awareness in problematic situations. Language and gender distinction in the Chinese context is mainly helpful to refine the concept of information need levels and can also be an extension of Ruthven's research.