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Llabre MM, Timpano KR, Broos HC, Leite RO, Saab PG. Lessons from a longitudinal community-based investigation of adherence to guidelines and intent to vaccinate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccine 2024; 42:126265. [PMID: 39208566 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.126265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic is a major public health challenge. The US Centers for Disease Control published guidelines early in the pandemic emphasizing practicing good hygiene and staying at home, which were later modified. PURPOSE Using a community sample of 2152 participants in the state of Florida who responded to a series of online surveys, we tested a prediction model of adherence to guidelines and intent to vaccinate during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Participants were assessed in May 2020, June 2020, and January 2021. Predictors included sociodemographic and psychological variables. RESULTS A slight decrease in adherence was reported over time. In multivariate models, older age, female sex, having health insurance, greater knowledge about COVID-19, more worry, less loneliness, and greater confidence and trust in COVID-19 information were all significantly and consistently associated with greater adherence to guidelines. Significant predictors of intent to vaccinate were male sex, greater knowledge, higher socioeconomic status, identifying as White, and greater guideline adherence (p's < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight a number of significant predictors, including knowledge, loneliness, and confidence/trust. Critically these variables are modifiable and could therefore serve as targets in public health interventions to improve adherence to pandemic guidelines in the general population, as well as certain demographic characteristics that may influence intent to vaccinate. COVID-19 knowledge appears to play a central role in both adherence to guidelines and intent to vaccinate suggesting that having accurate information is critical for appropriate behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria M Llabre
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, United States.
| | - Kiara R Timpano
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, United States
| | - Hannah C Broos
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, United States
| | - Rafael O Leite
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, United States
| | - Patrice G Saab
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, United States
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2
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Douglas-Durham E, Tan ASL, Emmons KM, Viswanath K. The Relationship Between News Coverage of COVID-19 Misinformation and Online Search Behavior. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39212295 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2024.2395155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The spread of health misinformation poses a threat to public health as it can influence individuals' health beliefs and, potentially, behaviors, and their support for public health policies. The mainstream news media have the potential to inadvertently increase the salience of misinformation through their reporting. This study explores the agenda-setting effects of mainstream news media coverage on public salience of public health misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed the association between news media coverage and public salience - as measured by Google Trends relative search volume - of three different pieces of COVID-19 misinformation: (1) hydroxychloroquine is a safe and effective treatment for COVID-19; (2) the COVID-19 vaccines cause infertility; and (3) ivermectin is a safe and effective treatment for COVID-19. We plotted news coverage of each piece of misinformation against Google Trends relative search volume over time. Autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models were used to account for autocorrelation and analyze the relationship between the two time series. News media coverage volume was a significant predictor of same-day relative search volume for hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin. The relationship between news media coverage and searches for COVID-19 vaccines and infertility was not significant. These findings indicate mainstream news media coverage may contribute to the public salience of misinformation. Mainstream media outlets should contextualize their reporting on misinformation with verification from scientific consensus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella Douglas-Durham
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University
| | - Andy S L Tan
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economic, University of Pennsylvania
- Tobacco and Environmental Carcinogenesis Program, Abramson Cancer Center
| | - Karen M Emmons
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University
| | - Kasisomayajula Viswanath
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University
- Divison of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
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Kisa S, Kisa A. A Comprehensive Analysis of COVID-19 Misinformation, Public Health Impacts, and Communication Strategies: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e56931. [PMID: 39167790 PMCID: PMC11375383 DOI: 10.2196/56931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic was marked by an infodemic, characterized by the rapid spread of both accurate and false information, which significantly affected public health. This infodemic led to confusion, mistrust in health authorities, noncompliance with health guidelines, and engagement in risky health behaviors. Understanding the dynamics of misinformation during the pandemic is crucial for developing effective public health communication strategies. OBJECTIVE This comprehensive analysis aimed to examine the complexities of COVID-19 misinformation. Specifically, it sought to identify the sources and themes of misinformation, the target audiences most affected, and the effectiveness of various public health communication strategies in mitigating misinformation. METHODS This scoping review used the MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and Scopus databases to identify relevant studies. An established, methodical framework for scoping reviews was used to review literature published between December 2019 and September 2023. The inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed studies published in English that address COVID-19 misinformation and its sources, themes, and target audiences, as well as the effectiveness of public health communication strategies. RESULTS The scoping review identified that misinformation significantly impacted mental health, vaccine hesitancy, and health care decision-making. Social media and traditional media were major conduits for spreading misinformation. Key misinformation themes included the origins of the virus, ineffective treatments, and misunderstandings about public health measures. Misinformation sources ranged from social media platforms to traditional media outlets and informal networks. The impact of misinformation was found to vary across different regions and demographic groups, with vulnerable populations being disproportionately affected. Effective strategies to counter misinformation included enhancing health literacy; using digital technology; promoting clear, authoritative communication; and implementing fact-checking mechanisms. In addition, community engagement and targeted health campaigns played a crucial role in addressing misinformation. CONCLUSIONS The review emphasizes the critical need for accurate and consistent messaging to combat misinformation. Cooperative efforts among policy makers, health professionals, and communication experts are essential for developing effective interventions. Addressing the infodemic is vital for building a well-informed, health-literate society capable of handling misinformation in future global health crises. The study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of misinformation and highlights the importance of robust public health communication strategies. These findings can guide future efforts to mitigate the impact of misinformation during health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezer Kisa
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Adnan Kisa
- Department of Health and Exercise, School of Health Sciences, Kristiania University College, Oslo, Norway
- Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
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Zhang S, Zhou H, Zhu Y. Have we found a solution for health misinformation? A ten-year systematic review of health misinformation literature 2013-2022. Int J Med Inform 2024; 188:105478. [PMID: 38743994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2024.105478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health misinformation (HM) has emerged as a prominent social issue in recent years, driven by declining public trust, popularisation of digital media platforms and escalating public health crisis. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, HM has raised critical concerns due to its significant impacts on both individuals and society as a whole. A comprehensive understanding of HM and HM-related studies would be instrumental in identifying possible solutions to address HM and the associated challenges. METHODS Following the PRISMA procedure, 11,739 papers published from January 2013 to December 2022 were retrieved from five electronic databases, and 813 papers matching the inclusion criteria were retained for further analysis. This article critically reviewed HM-related studies, detailing the factors facilitating HM creation and dissemination, negative impacts of HM, solutions to HM, and research methods employed in those studies. RESULTS A growing number of studies have focused on HM since 2013. Results of this study highlight that trust plays a significant while latent role in the circuits of HM, facilitating the creation and dissemination of HM, exacerbating the negative impacts of HM and amplifying the difficulty in addressing HM. CONCLUSION For health authorities and governmental institutions, it is essential to systematically build public trust in order to reduce the probability of individuals acceptation of HM and to improve the effectiveness of misinformation correction. Future studies should pay more attention to the role of trust in how to address HM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyi Zhang
- School of Arts, Media and Communication, University of Leicester, UK
| | - Huiyu Zhou
- School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, University of Leicester, UK
| | - Yimei Zhu
- School of Arts, Media and Communication, University of Leicester, UK.
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Shiloh S, Peleg S, Nudelman G. Associations between vaccination and protective behaviors against COVID-19: transfer and redundancy effects as potential psychological mechanisms. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2024; 29:1296-1312. [PMID: 38240264 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2024.2302331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate mechanisms explaining associations between vaccination and protective health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study used a secondary analysis of data from a longitudinal online study at four time points between April 2020 and March 2021. Two hundred and forty participants responded to questionnaires assessing adherence to multiple COVID-19 protection behaviors, COVID-19 vaccination, behavioral specific outcome expectancies and general healthy lifestyle. Statistical analyses included z statistic for differences between correlations and moderation analysis by the SPSS PROCESS macro. The correlation between initial adherence to protective behaviors prior to availability of vaccination and actual vaccination was positive, but when vaccination was available, the concurrent correlation between these behaviors was null. Healthy lifestyle and outcome expectancies moderated the association between vaccination and adherence to protection behaviors. These results were explained by a 'redundancy effect', conceptualized as beliefs that engagement in specific health behaviors justifies evading other health behaviors. The 'redundancy effect' cancelled the initial positive correlation between vaccination and protective health behaviors, produced by a 'transfer effect', based on similarities between the perceived purposes of those behaviors. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoshana Shiloh
- School of Psychological Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Gabriel Nudelman
- School of Behavioral Sciences, The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yafo, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Adamus M, Ballová Mikušková E, Kohut M. Conspire to one's own detriment: Strengthening HPV Program Support Through Debunking Epistemically Suspect Beliefs. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2024. [PMID: 38923394 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The study experimentally tested an intervention that debunks epistemically suspect beliefs about vaccines. After answering questions about pre-existing epistemically suspect beliefs (irrational health beliefs and conspiracy mentality), 565 participants were randomly assigned into one of three conditions and exposed either to neutral information about domestic animals, salient epistemically suspect content about vaccination or an intervention that debunks epistemically suspect beliefs about vaccination. Afterwards, the participants answered questions about vaccination-related conspiracy narratives (manipulation check), vaccination attitudes, intentions to vaccinate against HPV, support for an HPV vaccination programme and intentions to seek health guidance. Although the intervention demonstrated the potential to inhibit the endorsement of conspiracy narratives, we found no differences in the other outcome variables. Nevertheless, across the conditions, pre-existing epistemically suspect beliefs were associated with less favourable attitudes towards vaccination, lower intentions to vaccinate against HPV, less support for the vaccination programme and lower intentions to seek health guidance. The results indicate that debunking may be futile in curbing long-term negative impacts associated with epistemically suspect beliefs, and they contribute to the debate about assessing the effectiveness of interventions related to highly controversial topics such as vaccination. The study enhances understanding of persistent adverse impacts that epistemically suspect beliefs may have on public health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Adamus
- Faculty of Economics and Administration, Masaryk University in Brno, Czechia
- Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Slovakia
| | | | - Michal Kohut
- Faculty of Philosophy and Arts, University of Trnava, Trnava, Slovakia
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Fountoulakis KN, Alias NA, Bjedov S, Fountoulakis NK, Gonda X, Hilbig J, Jakovljević M, Kulig B, Mahale G, Manafis A, Mohammed M, Nadareishvili I, Navickas A, Patsali ME, Pavlichenko A, Pilaga SM, Razali S, Romanov D, Rossitza I, Salihu AS, Sinauridze A, Stoyanova M, Thosar K, Vorobjova J, Vrublevska J, Rancans E, Javed A, Theodorakis PN, Breda J, Smirnova D. Students' mental health during the pandemic: results of the observational cross-sectional COVID-19 MEntal health inTernational for university Students (COMET-S) study. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1320156. [PMID: 38293595 PMCID: PMC10825874 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1320156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of the study was to search rates of depression and mental health in university students, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods This is an observational cross-sectional study. A protocol gathering sociodemographic variables as well as depression, anxiety and suicidality and conspiracism was assembled, and data were collected anonymously and online from April 2020 through March 2021. The sample included 12,488 subjects from 11 countries, of whom 9,026 were females (72.2%; aged 21.11 ± 2.53), 3,329 males (26.65%; aged 21.61 ± 2.81) and 133 "non-binary gender" (1.06%; aged 21.02 ± 2.98). The analysis included chi-square tests, correlation analysis, ANCOVA, multiple forward stepwise linear regression analysis and Relative Risk ratios. Results Dysphoria was present in 15.66% and probable depression in 25.81% of the total study sample. More than half reported increase in anxiety and depression and 6.34% in suicidality, while lifestyle changes were significant. The model developed explained 18.4% of the development of depression. Believing in conspiracy theories manifested a complex effect. Close to 25% was believing that the vaccines include a chip and almost 40% suggested that facemask wearing could be a method of socio-political control. Conspiracism was related to current depression but not to history of mental disorders. Discussion The current study reports that students are at high risk for depression during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified specific risk factors. It also suggested a role of believing in conspiracy theories. Further research is important, as it is targeted intervention in students' groups that are vulnerable both concerning mental health and conspiracism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos N. Fountoulakis
- 3rd Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Greece, Thessaloniki, Greece
- WHO Collaboration Center for Quality in Mental Health, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nor Aziah Alias
- Academic Affairs Division, Faculty of Education, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sarah Bjedov
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Xenia Gonda
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Jan Hilbig
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Barbara Kulig
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Girija Mahale
- Symbiosis Centre for Emotional Wellbeing, Symbiosis International (Deemed) University, Pune, India
| | - Alexandros Manafis
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Muftau Mohammed
- Department of Mental Health, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | - Alvydas Navickas
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Mikaella E. Patsali
- School of Social Sciences, Hellenic Open University, Patras, Greece
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nicosia General Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Alexey Pavlichenko
- Education Center, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 n.a. N.A. Alexeev of Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Salmi Razali
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Dmitry Romanov
- Department of Psychiatry, Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
| | - Iakimova Rossitza
- Second Psychiatric Clinic, University Hospital for Active Treatment in Neurology and Psychiatry “Saint Naum”, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Auwal Sani Salihu
- Department of Psychiatry, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
- Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Ana Sinauridze
- Georgian Medical Students' Association, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Maria Stoyanova
- Second Psychiatric Clinic, University Hospital for Active Treatment in Neurology and Psychiatry “Saint Naum”, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ketaki Thosar
- Symbiosis Centre for Emotional Wellbeing, Symbiosis International (Deemed) University, Pune, India
| | | | - Jelena Vrublevska
- Department of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
- Institute of Public Health, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
- Riga Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga, Latvia
| | - Elmars Rancans
- Department of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
- Riga Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga, Latvia
| | - Afzal Javed
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Pakistan Psychiatric Research Centre, Fountain House, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Joao Breda
- WHO Athens Quality of Care Office, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daria Smirnova
- International Centre for Education and Research in Neuropsychiatry, Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
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Gies L, Gogoi M, Bayliss CD, Pareek M, Webb A. Navigating the infodemic: A qualitative study of university students' information strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241228695. [PMID: 38298526 PMCID: PMC10829486 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241228695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives We aimed to study the strategies which university students developed for vetting information during the COVID-19 pandemic and associated infodemic. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with 34 students, using a piloted topic guide which explored several areas of pandemic experiences, including students' use of media. Transcripts were analysed inductively following the thematic approach. Higher order themes were finalised following a coding exercise undertaken by two of the authors. Results Participants were acutely aware of misinformation during the pandemic. They rated legacy news media (print and broadcast media with pre-Internet origins) higher than social media for reliable information about the pandemic. However, strikingly, not all legacy media were automatically trusted and not all social media were uniformly distrusted. Participants identified a set of mechanisms for establishing whether a piece of information was truthful and accurate. These mechanisms had four main focal points: (1) the source, (2) the message, (3) individual media literacy and (4) the trustworthiness of others. Despite possessing a critical awareness of misinformation, participants avoided posting anything in relation to the pandemic for fear of becoming the target of online abuse. Conclusions In addition to underscoring the role of media literacy, our research foregrounds the need to attend to the importance of fostering media confidence. We define media confidence as the ability of digital media users to challenge and interrogate questionable or inaccurate information safe in the knowledge that there are adequate regulatory mechanisms in place to curb abuse, trolling and intimidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieve Gies
- Department of Media and Communication, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Mayuri Gogoi
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Manish Pareek
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- Development Centre for Population Health, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Adam Webb
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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Damnjanović K, Ilić S, Kušić M, Lazić M, Popović D. Psychological Factors of Vaccination Intent among Healthcare Providers, Parents, and Laypeople. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1816. [PMID: 38140220 PMCID: PMC10748119 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The interrelatedness of social-structural aspects and psychological features with vaccination intention provides the context to explore personal psychological features related to vaccination. Specifically, we focused on general decision making and vaccine-related dispositions, and their contribution to the intention to vaccinate, within post-pandemic circumstances, after the imposed possibility of choosing a vaccine brand. Our study aimed to map the function (promotive, protective, risk, vulnerability) of a set of personal psychological aspects in the intention to vaccinate among people holding different social roles regarding the vaccination. We surveyed three samples of people: healthcare providers (HPs), parents, and laypeople, within the post-pandemic context. Negative vaccine attitudes lower intention to vaccinate in all regression models (all βs ranging from -0.128 to -0.983, all ps < 0.01). The main results indicate that, regardless of the sample/social role, there is a shared attitudinal core for positive vaccination intention. This core consists of [high] trust in large corporations, government, and healthcare systems, as well as perceived consensus on vaccine safety/efficacy and experience of freedom (protective factors), and [low] vaccination conspiracy beliefs, trust in social media, and choice overload (risk and vulnerability factors, respectively). There are no common promotive factors of intention to vaccinate: for parents, perceived consensus on vaccines, and trust in corporations and the healthcare system, play such roles; for HPs, the experience of freedom is obtained as a unique promotive factor. In contrast, for laypeople, no unique promotive factors were found. Our findings provide insights into the function of psychological factors of vaccination intention across different social roles, particularly healthcare providers, parents, and laypeople, and emphasize the need for tailored immunization interventions in the post-pandemic landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaja Damnjanović
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychology, Department of Psychology, Institute of Philosophy, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Beograd, Serbia
| | - Sandra Ilić
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Beograd, Serbia;
| | - Marija Kušić
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Beograd, Serbia;
| | - Milica Lazić
- Faculty of Philosophy, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
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10
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Knezevic G, Lazarević L, Purić D, Zupan Z, Žeželj I. Prevalence of questionable health behaviours in Serbia and their psychological roots: protocol for a nationally representative survey. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075274. [PMID: 37827738 PMCID: PMC11148696 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We will launch a national survey in Serbia to document the prevalence of two types of questionable health behaviours: (1) intentional non-adherence to medical recommendations and (2) use of traditional, complementary and alternative medicine practices, as well as the relation between the two. We will also investigate their psychological roots, including (a) 'distal' predictors such as HEXACO personality traits (plus Disintegration) and thinking dispositions (rational/experiential thinking and cognitive reflexivity), and (b) 'proximal' predictors under the umbrella 'irrational mindset' (set of unfounded beliefs consisting of conspiratorial thinking, superstition, magical health beliefs as well as selected cognitive biases), which have more content-wise overlap with the health behaviours. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In this cross-sectional study, a research agency will collect data from a nationally representative sample (n=1043; age 18-75 years; estimated start/end-June/November 2021) recruited online (approximately, 70% of the sample, aged 18-54; 11 years) and face-to-face (approximately, 30% of the sample, aged 55-75 years). Participants will complete a battery of tests assessing questionable health behaviours, basic personality traits, thinking dispositions, irrational mindset, sociopolitical beliefs, sociodemographic and health-related variables. Prevalence rates will be calculated using descriptive statistics. To explore the relation between (psychological) predictors and questionable health behaviours, we will use hierarchical regression and partial mediation models (path analysis or full SEM models). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical Committees of the Faculty of Philosophy in Belgrade (#935/1), Faculty of Special Education and Rehabilitation (#139/1) and Faculty of Media and Communications (#228) approved the protocol. Only participants who provide informed consent will participate in the study. A research report based on the study results will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals and results will be made available to stakeholders through reports on the project website https://reasonforhealth.f.bg.ac.rs/en/ and disseminated via social media. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05808660.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Knezevic
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ljiljana Lazarević
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Danka Purić
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorana Zupan
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Iris Žeželj
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Shivak SM, Caissie DM, Power HA, Asmundson AJN, Wright KD. The relationship between maladaptive health beliefs, pandemic-related stress, and health anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY REPORT 2023; 12:69-78. [PMID: 38425889 PMCID: PMC10900977 DOI: 10.5114/hpr/169169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has demonstrated that people experience specific distress and anxiety regarding COVID-19. This distress may consist of interconnected symptom categories corresponding to a COVID stress syndrome. Susceptibility to COVID stress syndrome may be related to one's maladaptive health beliefs; however, no research has investigated the association between maladaptive health beliefs and COVID stress. The present study explored the impact of health beliefs on COVID stress, health anxiety, and associated psychological constructs. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE This cross-sectional survey study included 221 adults (M age = 20.59, SD = 2.28). Participants completed an online survey including demographic questionnaires and self-report measures of health beliefs, COVID stress, health anxiety, and related psychological constructs. RESULTS Health anxiety, anxiety sensitivity, state/trait anxiety, intolerance of uncertainty, and depression accounted for significant variance in COVID stress (F(6, 214) = 11.18, R2 = .24, p < .001). Health beliefs (i.e., perceived likelihood of illness, medical service inadequacy, and difficulty coping) were associated with greater COVID stress, although health beliefs were not found to mediate the relationship between health anxiety and COVID stress. CONCLUSIONS Health beliefs were associated with greater COVID stress, although health beliefs did not mediate the relationship between health anxiety and COVID stress. The relationship between health anxiety and COVID stress may be better explained by other COVID-related cognitions (e.g., vaccine efficacy, dangerousness of COVID-19). The findings highlight the importance of peoples' health beliefs during the pandemic. Given anxiety's influence on peoples' behavioural responses to the pandemic, further research should identify COVID-specific cognitions for prevention of COVID stress and health anxiety.
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Mousoulidou M, Siakalli M, Christodoulou A, Argyrides M. Conspiracy Theories, Trust in Science, and Knowledge during the Third Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Cyprus. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6710. [PMID: 37681850 PMCID: PMC10487943 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Conspiracy theories flourish during periods of crisis. One way to counteract the believability of conspiracy theories is trust in science and knowledge about the "perceived threat", such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A total of 363 adults from Cyprus were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling methods. The data were collected via an internet-based questionnaire that examined participants' belief in 17 conspiracy theory statements, trust in science and scientists, knowledge about the symptoms and the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, phobic anxiety, hostility, somatization, and personality traits based on the Big Five. The results suggest (a) the overall belief in conspiracy theories in Cyprus is low, even though a notable percentage holds a neutral stance towards these theories; (b) trust in science and knowledge about the symptoms and the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is negatively related to conspiracy theories, indicating the importance of trusting science and having knowledge as a means to counteract conspiracy theories; (c) young adults, those residing in rural areas, and those with a low education level are more likely to believe in conspiracy theories; (d) there are no significant associations between conspiracy theories and the psychological dimensions of phobic anxiety, hostility, and somatization; (e) there is difficulty in identifying specific traits related to conspiracy ideation. Public health officials could benefit from the findings when communicating information during periods of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Mousoulidou
- Department of Psychology, Neapolis University Pafos, Paphos 8042, Cyprus; (M.S.); (A.C.); (M.A.)
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Stojanov A, Hannawa A. Validating a German Version of the Conspiracy Mentality Scale (CMS). J Pers Assess 2023; 105:691-701. [PMID: 36507630 DOI: 10.1080/00223891.2022.2149408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Increased scientific interest in conspiracy beliefs raises the need for validated individual difference measures in the general tendency to believe in conspiracy theories, otherwise referred to as conspiracy mentality. In this article, we present a German language version of the Conspiracy Mentality Scale (CMS). A representative sample of German-speaking Swiss residents (N = 468) filled in the scale, along with measures of trust in several sources of information, need for social validation, compliance with Covid-19 preventive measures, perceived severity of the pandemic, loneliness, functional literacy and interpersonal conflict. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the two-dimensional structure of the original scale. Positive correlations between conspiracy theory ideation and trust in friends and the need for social validation on the one hand, and negative correlations with trust in scientific publications and scientific experts, perceived severity of the pandemic and functional literacy on the other hand supported construct validity. We conclude that our German language version of the scale is a valid measure of conspiracy theory ideation and skepticism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Stojanov
- Higher Education Development Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Annegret Hannawa
- Faculty of Communication, Culture & Society, Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), Lugano, Switzerland
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14
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N. Fountoulakis K, N. Karakatsoulis G, Abraham S, Adorjan K, Ahmed HU, Alarcón RD, Arai K, Auwal SS, Bobes J, Bobes-Bascaran T, Bourgin-Duchesnay J, Bredicean CA, Bukelskis L, Burkadze A, Cabrera Abud II, Castilla-Puentes R, Cetkovich M, Colon-Rivera H, Corral R, Cortez-Vergara C, Crepin P, de Berardis D, Zamora Delgado S, de Lucena D, de Sousa A, di Stefano R, Dodd S, Elek LP, Elissa A, Erdelyi-Hamza B, Erzin G, Etchevers MJ, Falkai P, Farcas A, Fedotov I, Filatova V, Fountoulakis NK, Frankova I, Franza F, Frias P, Galako T, Garay CJ, Garcia-Álvarez L, García-Portilla P, Gonda X, Gondek TM, Morera González D, Gould H, Grandinetti P, Grau A, Groudeva V, Hagin M, Harada T, Hasan TM, Azreen Hashim N, Hilbig J, Hossain S, Iakimova R, Ibrahim M, Iftene F, Ignatenko Y, Irarrazaval M, Ismail Z, Ismayilova J, Jacobs A, Jakovljević M, Jakšić N, Javed A, Yilmaz Kafali H, Karia S, Kazakova O, Khalifa D, Khaustova O, Koh S, Kopishinskaia S, Kosenko K, Koupidis SA, Kovacs I, Kulig B, Lalljee A, Liewig J, Majid A, Malashonkova E, Malik K, Iqbal Malik N, Mammadzada G, Mandalia B, Marazziti D, Marčinko D, Martinez S, Matiekus E, Mejia G, Memon RS, Meza Martínez XE, Mickevičiūtė D, Milev R, Mohammed M, Molina-López A, Morozov P, Muhammad NS, Mustač F, Naor MS, Nassieb A, Navickas A, Okasha T, Pandova M, Panfil AL, Panteleeva L, Papava I, Patsali ME, Pavlichenko A, Pejuskovic B, Pinto da Costa M, Popkov M, Popovic D, Raduan NJN, Vargas Ramírez F, Rancans E, Razali S, Rebok F, Rewekant A, Reyes Flores EN, Rivera-Encinas MT, Saiz PA, Sánchez de Carmona M, Saucedo Martínez D, Saw JA, Saygili G, Schneidereit P, Shah B, Shirasaka T, Silagadze K, Sitanggang S, Skugarevsky O, Spikina A, Mahalingappa SS, Stoyanova M, Szczegielniak A, Tamasan SC, Tavormina G, Tavormina MGM, Theodorakis PN, Tohen M, Tsapakis EM, Tukhvatullina D, Ullah I, Vaidya R, Vega-Dienstmaier JM, Vrublevska J, Vukovic O, Vysotska O, Widiasih N, Yashikhina A, Prezerakos PE, Berk M, Levaj S, Smirnova D. Results of the COVID-19 mental health international for the health professionals (COMET-HP) study: depression, suicidal tendencies and conspiracism. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2023; 58:1387-1410. [PMID: 36867224 PMCID: PMC9982799 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02438-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The current study aimed to investigate the rates of anxiety, clinical depression, and suicidality and their changes in health professionals during the COVID-19 outbreak. MATERIALS AND METHODS The data came from the larger COMET-G study. The study sample includes 12,792 health professionals from 40 countries (62.40% women aged 39.76 ± 11.70; 36.81% men aged 35.91 ± 11.00 and 0.78% non-binary gender aged 35.15 ± 13.03). Distress and clinical depression were identified with the use of a previously developed cut-off and algorithm, respectively. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Descriptive statistics were calculated. Chi-square tests, multiple forward stepwise linear regression analyses, and Factorial Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) tested relations among variables. RESULTS Clinical depression was detected in 13.16% with male doctors and 'non-binary genders' having the lowest rates (7.89 and 5.88% respectively) and 'non-binary gender' nurses and administrative staff had the highest (37.50%); distress was present in 15.19%. A significant percentage reported a deterioration in mental state, family dynamics, and everyday lifestyle. Persons with a history of mental disorders had higher rates of current depression (24.64% vs. 9.62%; p < 0.0001). Suicidal tendencies were at least doubled in terms of RASS scores. Approximately one-third of participants were accepting (at least to a moderate degree) a non-bizarre conspiracy. The highest Relative Risk (RR) to develop clinical depression was associated with a history of Bipolar disorder (RR = 4.23). CONCLUSIONS The current study reported findings in health care professionals similar in magnitude and quality to those reported earlier in the general population although rates of clinical depression, suicidal tendencies, and adherence to conspiracy theories were much lower. However, the general model of factors interplay seems to be the same and this could be of practical utility since many of these factors are modifiable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos N. Fountoulakis
- 3rd Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Greece, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Grigorios N. Karakatsoulis
- 3rd Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Greece, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Seri Abraham
- Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, Ashton-under-Lyne, UK
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- Core Psychiatry Training, Health Education England North West, Manchester, UK
| | - Kristina Adorjan
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludiwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Helal Uddin Ahmed
- Child Adolescent and Family Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Renato D. Alarcón
- Section of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Facultad de Medicina Alberto Hurtado, Lima, Peru
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, Rochester, MN USA
| | - Kiyomi Arai
- School of Medicine and Health Science, Institute of Health Science Shinshu University, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Sani Salihu Auwal
- Department of Psychiatry, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
- Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Julio Bobes
- Psychiatry Area, Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, ISPA, INEUROPA. CIBERSAM, Oviedo, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, ISPA, INEUROPA. CIBERSAM, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Teresa Bobes-Bascaran
- Mental Health Center of La Corredoria, ISPA, INEUROPA. CIBERSAM, Oviedo, Spain
- Department of Psychology, University of Oviedo, ISPA, INEUROPA. CIBERSAM, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Julie Bourgin-Duchesnay
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Groupe Hospitalier Nord Essonne, Orsay, France
| | - Cristina Ana Bredicean
- Department of Neuroscience, Discipline of Psychiatry, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Laurynas Bukelskis
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Akaki Burkadze
- Mental Hub, Tbilisi, Georgia
- NGO Healthcare Research and Quality Agency, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | | | - Ruby Castilla-Puentes
- Janssen Research and Development, Johnson and Johnson, American Society of Hispanic Psychiatry and WARMI Women Mental Health, Cincinnati, OH USA
| | - Marcelo Cetkovich
- Institute of Translational and Cognitive Neuroscience (INCyT), INECO Foundation, Favaloro University, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Hector Colon-Rivera
- APM Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Neurology, Addiction Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine, UPMC, DDAP, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Ricardo Corral
- Department of Teaching and Research, Hospital Borda, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Piirika Crepin
- Sanitaire and Social Union for Accompaniment and Prevention, Center of Ambulatory Psychiatry of Narbonne and Lezigan, Narbonne, France
| | - Domenico de Berardis
- Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Hospital “G. Mazzini”, ASL Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- School of Nursing, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, School of Psychiatry, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Sergio Zamora Delgado
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital Luis Calvo Mackenna, Santiago, Chile
| | - David de Lucena
- Departamento de Fisiología E Farmacología, Universidade Federal Do Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará Brazil
| | - Avinash de Sousa
- Department of Psychiatry, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Mumbai, India
- Desousa Foundation, Mumbai, India
| | - Ramona di Stefano
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Seetal Dodd
- IMPACT–the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Deakin University, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Orygen The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC Australia
| | - Livia Priyanka Elek
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna Elissa
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Berta Erdelyi-Hamza
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gamze Erzin
- Psychiatry Department, Ankara Dışkapı Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Martin J. Etchevers
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Peter Falkai
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludiwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Adriana Farcas
- Centre of Neuroscience, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON Canada
| | - Ilya Fedotov
- Department of Psychiatry and Narcology, Ryazan State Medical University N.a. Academician I.P. Pavlov, Ryazan, Russia
| | - Viktoriia Filatova
- State Budgetary Institution of the Rostov Region “Psychoneurological Dispensary”, Rostov-On-Don, Russia
| | | | - Iryna Frankova
- Medical Psychology, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy Department, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kiev, Ukraine
| | - Francesco Franza
- Villa Dei Pini Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center, Avellino, Italy
- Psychiatric Studies Centre, Provaglio d’Iseo, Italy
| | | | - Tatiana Galako
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Psychology and Drug Abuse, Kyrgyz State Medical Academy, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
| | - Cristian J. Garay
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Paz García-Portilla
- Psychiatry Area, Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, ISPA, INEUROPA. CIBERSAM, Oviedo, Spain
- Mental Health Center of La Ería, ISPA, INEUROPA. CIBERSAM, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Xenia Gonda
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tomasz M. Gondek
- Specialty Training Section, Polish Psychiatric Association, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Hilary Gould
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, USA
| | - Paolo Grandinetti
- Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Hospital “G. Mazzini”, ASL Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Arturo Grau
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital Luis Calvo Mackenna, Santiago, Chile
- Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
| | - Violeta Groudeva
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, University Hospital Saint Ekaterina, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Michal Hagin
- Forensic Psychiatry Unit, Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat Yam, Israel
| | - Takayuki Harada
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Education Bureau of the Laboratory Schools, University of Tsukuba, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tasdik M. Hasan
- Department of Primary Care and Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Public Health Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nurul Azreen Hashim
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jan Hilbig
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Sahadat Hossain
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Rossitza Iakimova
- Second Psychiatric Clinic, University Hospital for Active Treatment in Neurology and Psychiatry “Saint Naum”, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mona Ibrahim
- Faculty of Medicine, Okasha Institute of Psychiatry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Felicia Iftene
- Department of Psychiatry, Queens University, Kingston, ON Canada
| | - Yulia Ignatenko
- Mental Health Clinic No 1 N.a. N.A. Alexeev of Moscow Healthcare Department, Education Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - Matias Irarrazaval
- Ministry of Health, Millenium Institute for Research in Depression and Personality, Santiago, Chile
| | - Zaliha Ismail
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jamila Ismayilova
- National Mental Health Center of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Asaf Jacobs
- Department of Psychiatry, Westchester Medical Center Health System, Valhalla, NY USA
- New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY USA
| | | | - Nenad Jakšić
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Afzal Javed
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Psychiatric Research Centre, Fountain House, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Sagar Karia
- Department of Psychiatry, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Mumbai, India
| | | | - Doaa Khalifa
- Faculty of Medicine, Okasha Institute of Psychiatry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Olena Khaustova
- Medical Psychology, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy Department, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kiev, Ukraine
| | - Steve Koh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, USA
| | - Svetlana Kopishinskaia
- International Centre for Education and Research in Neuropsychiatry (ICERN), Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
- Kirov State Medical University, Kirov, Russia
| | - Korneliia Kosenko
- Drug Abuse and Psychology Department, Odessa National Medical University, Odessa, Ukraine
| | - Sotirios A. Koupidis
- Occupational and Environmental Health Sector, Public Health Policy Department, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Illes Kovacs
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Barbara Kulig
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Justine Liewig
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Groupe Hospitalier Nord Essonne, Orsay, France
| | - Abdul Majid
- Department of Psychiatry, SKIMS Medical College, Srinagar, India
| | - Evgeniia Malashonkova
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Groupe Hospitalier Nord Essonne, Orsay, France
| | - Khamelia Malik
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Najma Iqbal Malik
- Department of Psychology, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Gulay Mammadzada
- Department of Psychiatry, Azerbaijan Medical University, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | | | - Donatella Marazziti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Unicamillus, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
- Brain Research Foundation Onus, Lucca, Italy
| | - Darko Marčinko
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Stephanie Martinez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, USA
| | - Eimantas Matiekus
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Gabriela Mejia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, USA
| | - Roha Saeed Memon
- Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Roumen Milev
- Department of Psychiatry, Queens University, Kingston, ON Canada
| | - Muftau Mohammed
- Department of Clinical Services, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Alejandro Molina-López
- General Office for the Psychiatric Services of the Ministry of Health, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Petr Morozov
- Department of Postgraduate Education, Russian National Research Medical University N.a. N.I. Pirogov, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nuru Suleiman Muhammad
- Department of Community Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Filip Mustač
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mika S. Naor
- Sackler School of Medicine New York State American Program, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Amira Nassieb
- Faculty of Medicine, Okasha Institute of Psychiatry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alvydas Navickas
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Tarek Okasha
- Faculty of Medicine, Okasha Institute of Psychiatry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Milena Pandova
- Second Psychiatric Clinic, University Hospital for Active Treatment in Neurology and Psychiatry “Saint Naum”, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Anca-Livia Panfil
- Compartment of Liaison Psychiatry, “Pius Brinzeu” County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Liliya Panteleeva
- Department of Medical Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
| | - Ion Papava
- Department of Neuroscience, Discipline of Psychiatry, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mikaella E. Patsali
- School of Social Sciences, Hellenic Open University, Patras, Greece
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nicosia General Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Alexey Pavlichenko
- Ministry of Health, Millenium Institute for Research in Depression and Personality, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bojana Pejuskovic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinical Department for Crisis and Affective Disorders, Institute of Mental Health, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Mikhail Popkov
- Department of the Introduction to Internal Medicine and Family Medicine, International Higher School of Medicine, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
| | | | - Nor Jannah Nasution Raduan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Francisca Vargas Ramírez
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital Luis Calvo Mackenna, Santiago, Chile
- Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
| | - Elmars Rancans
- Department of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
- Riga Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga, Latvia
| | - Salmi Razali
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Federico Rebok
- Servicio de Emergencia, Acute Inpatient Unit, Hospital Moyano, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Argentine Institute of Clinical Psychiatry (IAPC), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Anna Rewekant
- General Psychiatry Unit I, Greater Poland Neuropsychiatric Center, Kościan, Poland
| | | | - María Teresa Rivera-Encinas
- Centro de Investigación en Salud Pública, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de San Martín de Porres, Instituto Nacional de Salud Mental “Honorio Delgado – Hideyo Noguchi”, Lima, Perú
| | - Pilar A. Saiz
- Psychiatry Area, Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, ISPA, INEUROPA. CIBERSAM, Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - David Saucedo Martínez
- Department of Psychiatry, Escuela Nacional de Medicina, TEC de Monterrey. Servicio de Geriatría. Hospital Universitario “José Eleuterio González” UANL, Monterrey, Nuevo León México
| | - Jo Anne Saw
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Görkem Saygili
- Assistant Professor at Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence Department, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Patricia Schneidereit
- Klinik Für Allgemeine Psychiatrie Und Psychotherapie Ost, Psychiatrische Institutsambulanz, Klinikum Am Weissenhof, Weissenhof, Germany
| | | | - Tomohiro Shirasaka
- Department of Psychiatry, Teine Keijinkai Medical Center, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | - Satti Sitanggang
- Psychiatric Unit, Pambalah Batung General Hospital, South Kalimantan, Amuntai, Indonesia
| | - Oleg Skugarevsky
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Anna Spikina
- Saint Petersburg Psychoneurological Dispensary No2, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Sridevi Sira Mahalingappa
- Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, The Liasion Team, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, Derbyshire UK
| | - Maria Stoyanova
- Second Psychiatric Clinic, University Hospital for Active Treatment in Neurology and Psychiatry “Saint Naum”, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Anna Szczegielniak
- Department of Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Simona Claudia Tamasan
- Compartment of Liaison Psychiatry, “Pius Brinzeu” County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Giuseppe Tavormina
- Psychiatric Studies Centre, Provaglio d’Iseo, Italy
- European Depression Association and Italian Association on Depression, Brussels, Belgium
- Bedforshire Center for Mental Health Research, in association with the University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Mauricio Tohen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - Eva-Maria Tsapakis
- Agios Charalambos Mental Health Clinic, Heraklion, Crete Greece
- 1st Department of Academic Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dina Tukhvatullina
- Centre for Global Public Health, Institute of Population Health Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Irfan Ullah
- Kabir Medical College, Gandhara University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Ratnaraj Vaidya
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Jelena Vrublevska
- Department of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
- Riga Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga, Latvia
- Department of Psychiatry, Narcology, Psychotherapy and Clinical Psychology, Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
| | - Olivera Vukovic
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nicosia General Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Institute of Public Health, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Olga Vysotska
- Department for Research and Education, Institute of Mental Health, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Natalia Widiasih
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Anna Yashikhina
- International Centre for Education and Research in Neuropsychiatry (ICERN), Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
- Educational and Research Center–Ukrainian Family Medicine Training Center, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kiev, Ukraine
| | - Panagiotis E. Prezerakos
- Department of Psychiatry, Narcology, Psychotherapy and Clinical Psychology, Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
| | - Michael Berk
- IMPACT–the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Deakin University, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Orygen The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sarah Levaj
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Daria Smirnova
- International Centre for Education and Research in Neuropsychiatry (ICERN), Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
- Department of Nursing, University of Peloponnese, Laboratory of Integrated Health Care, Tripoli, Greece
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15
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Lazarević LB, Knežević G, Purić D, Teovanović P, Petrović MB, Ninković M, Živanović M, Stanković S, Branković M, Lukić P, Opačić G, Žeželj I. Tracking variations in daily questionable health behaviors and their psychological roots: a preregistered experience sampling study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14058. [PMID: 37640927 PMCID: PMC10462719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41243-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
People resort to various questionable health practices to preserve or regain health - they intentionally do not adhere to medical recommendations (e.g. self-medicate or modify the prescribed therapies; iNAR), or use traditional/complementary/alternative (TCAM) medicine. As retrospective reports overestimate adherence and suffer from recall and desirability bias, we tracked the variations in daily questionable health behaviors and compared them to their retrospectively reported lifetime use. We also preregistered and explored their relations to a wide set of psychological predictors - distal (personality traits and basic thinking dispositions) and proximal (different unfounded beliefs and biases grouped under the term irrational mindset). A community sample (N = 224) tracked daily engagement in iNAR and TCAM use for 14 days, resulting in 3136 data points. We observed a high rate of questionable health practices over the 14 days; daily engagement rates roughly corresponded to lifetime ones. Both iNAR and TCAM were weakly, but robustly positively related. Independent of the assessment method, an irrational mindset was the most important predictor of TCAM use. For iNAR, however, psychological predictors emerged as relevant only when assessed retrospectively. Our study offers insight into questionable health behaviors from both a within and between-person perspective and highlights the importance of their psychological roots.
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Affiliation(s)
- L B Lazarević
- Faculty of Philosophy, Institute of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - G Knežević
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Čika Ljubina 18-20, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - D Purić
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Čika Ljubina 18-20, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - P Teovanović
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Special Education and Rehabilitation, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M B Petrović
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Čika Ljubina 18-20, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Ninković
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Čika Ljubina 18-20, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Živanović
- Faculty of Philosophy, Institute of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - S Stanković
- Faculty of Philosophy, Institute of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Branković
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Institute for Philosophy and Social Theory, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Media and Communication, Singidunum University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - P Lukić
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Čika Ljubina 18-20, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - G Opačić
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Čika Ljubina 18-20, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - I Žeželj
- Faculty of Philosophy, Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Čika Ljubina 18-20, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia.
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16
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Courdi C, Ramazan Ali S, Pelletier-Dumas M, Stolle D, Dorfman A, Lina JM, Lacourse É, de la Sablonnière R. How level of understanding and type of used sources relate to adherence to COVID-19 public health measures in Canada. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13065. [PMID: 37567899 PMCID: PMC10421852 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38824-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have highlighted the importance of promoting health literacy and minimizing misinformation to encourage higher adherence to key public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explores how one's self-reported understanding of information and types of sources used to get information regarding COVID-19 can hinder adherence to public health measures implemented by the Canadian government. Data was collected following a longitudinal design of 11 time points for April 2020 to April 2021. The sub-sample used for this study included 2659 Canadians who completed the survey for at least four time points. Using Latent Class Growth Analysis, we modelled typical trajectories of adherence to three key public health measures: staying home, social distancing and mask wearing. Overall, a lower level of understanding was associated with lower adherence trajectories to public health measures, and vice-versa. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) showed that the higher the level of understanding, the higher were the chances of following a high adherence trajectory. The type of used sources also showed a significant statistical association with adherence trajectories for social distancing and staying home (AOR: between 1.1 and 3.4). These results are discussed considering future policy implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dietlind Stolle
- Department of Political Science, McGill University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anna Dorfman
- Departement of Psychology, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Jean-Marc Lina
- Departement of Electrical Engineering, École de Technologie Supérieure, Montreal, Canada
| | - Éric Lacourse
- Department of Sociology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.
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17
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Hartmann M, Müller P. Acceptance and Adherence to COVID-19 Preventive Measures are Shaped Predominantly by Conspiracy Beliefs, Mistrust in Science and Fear - A Comparison of More than 20 Psychological Variables. Psychol Rep 2023; 126:1742-1783. [PMID: 35212558 PMCID: PMC8883133 DOI: 10.1177/00332941211073656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic sparked a great interest in psychological factors that determine or explain peoples' responses to the novel threatening situation and the preventive measures (e.g. wearing masks, social distancing). In this study, we focused on contaminated mindware (conspiracy and paranormal beliefs) and investigated its relationship with both acceptance of and adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures, along with other variables from the domains of emotion (trait anxiety, fear), traditional personality traits (Big 5, locus of control, optimism/pessimism) and motivation (self-control, dispositional regulatory focus). A total of 22 variables were measured in an online survey (N = 374) that took place during the second wave of COVID-19 (Nov. 2020 - March 2021) in Switzerland. Of all variables, the endorsement of specific COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs was most strongly associated with lower acceptance and adherence to the preventive measures, together with mistrust in science and a more right-wing political orientation. In contrast, fear of COVID-19 and prevention regulatory focus were positively associated with acceptance and adherence. Our results therefore highlight the importance of fighting (conspiratorial) misinformation and of increasing the perceived credibility of science in reducing the spread of the coronavirus. Moreover, when acceptance was used as predictor for adherence, agreeableness and dispositional prevention regulatory focus still explained unique variance in adherence, suggesting that such personality and motivational variables play an important role in adhering and regulating preventive behaviour independent from the attitude towards the preventive measures themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Hartmann
- Faculty of Psychology, UniDistance Suisse, Brig, Switzerland
- Institute of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Petra Müller
- Faculty of Psychology, UniDistance Suisse, Brig, Switzerland
- Institute of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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18
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Peng S, Yang T, Zhang W, Cottrell RR. Temporal changes in mental response and prevention patterns, and their impact from uncertainty stress during the transition in China from the COVID-19 epidemic to sporadic infection. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19090. [PMID: 37636345 PMCID: PMC10450966 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
An epidemic of a highly lethal disease can overwhelm people emotionally and physically. Little is known about how public mental and preventive patterns changed during the transition from the COVID-19 epidemic to sporadic infection. This study examined changing trends of metal response and behavioral variables, and their impact from uncertainty stress in this process in China. A prospective longitudinal observation design was utilized. There were 7 waves of surveys from COVID-19 epidemic status to the sporadic infection period. Sixty-two participants completed all observation points and were included in the study. The Mann-Kendall Test was used to assess changing trends across the seven observation points. The nonparametric linear mixed effects model was used to examine the association between uncertainty stress and mental and behavioral responses. The mean uncertainty stress did not change significantly over the observation period (Z: -0.911, p > 0.05). This trend was also true for perceived risk, perceived severity, self-efficacy for prevention, and prevention behavior. There was a statistically significant downward trend in irrational beliefs about prevention (Z: -4.993, p < 0.01), sleep (Z: -2.499, p < 0.05), emotions (Z: -5.650, p < 0.01), and lifestyle (Z: -5.978, p < 0.01). The results showed that uncertainty stress was positively associated with irrational beliefs (β: 0.16298, p < 0.01), their sleep (β: 0.02070, p < 0.05), emotions (β: 0.03462, p < 0.01), and lifestyle (β: 0.02056, p < 0.05). High levels of uncertainty stress were negatively associated with self-efficacy for prevention and prevention behavior, β was -1.33210 (p < 0.01) and -0.82742 (p < 0.01). These results may have important policy and disease prevention in post-epidemic times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihui Peng
- School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China, No. 601 Huangpudadaoxi, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Tingzhong Yang
- Women's Hospital/Center for Tobacco Control Research, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, No. 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Injury Control Research Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, 886 Chestnut Ridge Road, Morgantown, WV, 26506, United States
| | - Weifang Zhang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, No. 166 Qiutao North Road, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Randall R. Cottrell
- Public Health Program, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, United States, 601 S. College Road, Wilmington, NC, 28403, United States
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19
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Purić D, Petrović MB, Živanović M, Lukić P, Zupan Z, Branković M, Ninković M, Lazarević LB, Stanković S, Žeželj I. Development of a novel instrument for assessing intentional non-adherence to official medical recommendations (iNAR-12): a sequential mixed-methods study in Serbia. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069978. [PMID: 37369402 PMCID: PMC10410978 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to (1) develop a novel instrument, suitable for the general population, capturing intentional non-adherence (iNAR), consisting of non-adherence to prescribed therapy, self-medication and avoidance of seeking medical treatment; (2) differentiate it from other forms of non-adherence, for example, smoking; and (3) relate iNAR to patient-related factors, such as sociodemographics, health status and endorsement of irrational beliefs (conspiratorial thinking and superstitions) and to healthcare-related beliefs and experiences ((mis)trust and negative experiences with the healthcare system, normalisation of patient passivity). DESIGN То generate iNAR items, we employed a focus group with medical doctors, supplemented it with a literature search and invited a public health expert to refine it further. We examined the internal structure and predictors of iNAR in an observational study. SETTING Data were collected online using snowball sampling and social networks. PARTICIPANTS After excluding those who failed one or more out of three attention checks, the final sample size was n=583 adult Serbian citizens, 74.4% female, mean age 39.01 years (SD=12.10). PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES The primary, planned outcome is the iNAR Questionnaire, while smoking was used for comparison purposes. RESULTS Factor analysis yielded a one-factor solution, and the final 12-item iNAR Questionnaire had satisfactory internal reliability (alpha=0.72). Health condition and healthcare-related variables accounted for 14% of the variance of iNAR behaviours, whereas sociodemographics and irrational beliefs did not additionally contribute. CONCLUSIONS We constructed a brief yet comprehensive measure of iNAR behaviours and related them to health and sociodemographic variables and irrational beliefs. The findings suggest that public health interventions should attempt to improve patients' experiences with the system and build trust with their healthcare practitioners rather than aim at specific demographic groups or at correcting patients' unfounded beliefs. STUDY REGISTRATION The design and confirmatory analyses plan were preregistered (https://osf.io/pnugm).
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Affiliation(s)
- D Purić
- Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M B Petrović
- Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Živanović
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Institute for Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - P Lukić
- Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Z Zupan
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Institute for Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Branković
- Institute for Philosophy and Social Theory, Belgrade, Serbia
- Singidunum University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Ninković
- Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - L B Lazarević
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Institute for Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - S Stanković
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Institute for Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - I Žeželj
- Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Laboratory for Research of Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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20
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Zhang R, Yan J, Jia H, Luo X, Lin J, Liu Q. Nationalism, conspiracy theories and vaccine mandates: Exploring the statism determinants for attitudes to COVID-19 control in China. Vaccine X 2023; 13:100263. [PMID: 36683778 PMCID: PMC9847324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2023.100263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction China's loosening its COVID-19 controls highlighted its insufficiency in vaccination protection. Mandatory vaccination might be necessary if the gap cannot be filled over a short time. However, few studies have explored how Chinese people view the COVID-19 vaccine mandates, let alone placing such views in the country's highly politicized context. Material and methods The current study utilizes data from a national survey adopting quota sampling to analyze the Chinese public's medical and non-medical considerations when judging compulsory COVID-19 vaccination (n = 1,523). The survey was conducted between 1 and 8 April 2021. All adults aged 18 years and older were eligible to take part. The survey included sociodemographic details, perceived susceptibility to infection, perceived vaccine benefit, attitudes to vaccination policies, nationalism, beliefs in various conspiracy theories and science literacy. Multiple regression analyses were done to examine factors associated with the attitude to COVID-19 vaccine mandates. Results The study reveals that personal risk and benefit perceptions did not dominate the Chinese public's attitude toward vaccination mandates. Instead, nationalism was relatively strongly associated with their willingness to accept mandatory vaccination. Contrary to studies in the West, various conspiracy beliefs and conspiratorial thinking were robustly related to the support for mandatory vacciniation. Science literacy didn't link to the attitude to vaccination mandates. It only had a weak moderating effect on the influence of conspiratorial thinking on attitudes to the vaccination policies. Conclusions The results indicated that Chinese people's attitude to the COVID-19 vaccination policy is highly politicized and influenced by conspiracy theories. Given the potentially massive impacts of the COVID-19 infection, we need to educate the Chinese public with more medically valuable and relevant information to help them make sound decisions regarding vaccination. Meanwhile, we can adopt nationalistic tones to improve the persuasion effect, but misinformation during the process must be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruifen Zhang
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
| | - Jun Yan
- School of Journalism and Information Communication, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Hepeng Jia
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China,School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China,Corresponding author at: School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
| | - Xi Luo
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
| | - Jingke Lin
- School of Journalism and Communication, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Qinliang Liu
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
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21
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Selçuk FÜ, Solak Grassie S. Psychosocial Predictors and Mediators Relating to the Preventive Behaviors of Hospital Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Turkey. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:255-260. [PMID: 36221299 PMCID: PMC9987642 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim is to analyze the relation of psychosocial factors to COVID-19 contraction, vaccination, and preventive health behavior in and outside work. METHODS The questionnaire data from hospital-workers in Turkey is analyzed using independent-samples t-test, logistic regression, linear regression, and mediation analyses. We developed a questionnaire on mask-hygiene-distance measures and also used previously developed scales including the Big Five Personality Questionnaire, Young Schema Questionnaire Short Form 3, Schwartz's Basic Human Values Scale, Short Dark Triad. RESULTS The odds of being infected by COVID-19 increases by self-direction. The odds of being vaccinated increases by age and conformity, and decreases by emotional stability. Education predicts certain preventive behaviors at work negatively and outside work positively. Older age, being a woman, having chronic disease, the self-transcendence and conservation values, agreeableness, and conscientiousness predict more preventive behaviors. The self-enhancement and openness to change values, the Dark Triad, and early maladaptive schemas predict more risky behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Designing prohealth policies requires further elaboration on the relation of psychosocial factors to preventive behaviors.
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22
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Žeželj I, Petrović M, Ivanović A, Kurčubić P. I trust my immunity more than your vaccines: "Appeal to nature" bias strongly predicts questionable health behaviors in the COVID-19 pandemic. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279122. [PMID: 36812237 PMCID: PMC9946228 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Health care policies often rely on public cooperation, especially during a health crisis. However, a crisis is also a period of uncertainty and proliferation of health-related advice: while some people adhere to the official recommendations, others tend to avoid them and resort to non-evidence based, pseudoscientific practices. People prone to the latter are often the ones endorsing a set of epistemically suspect beliefs, with two being particularly relevant: conspiratorial pandemic-related beliefs, and the appeal to nature bias regarding COVID-19 (i.e., trusting natural immunity to fight the pandemic). These in turn are rooted in trust in different epistemic authorities, seen as mutually exclusive: trust in science and trust in the "wisdom of the common man". Drawing from two nationally representative probability samples, we tested a model in which trust in science/wisdom of the common man predicted COVID-19 vaccination status (Study 1, N = 1001) or vaccination status alongside use of pseudoscientific health practices (Study 2, N = 1010), through COVID-19 conspiratorial beliefs and the appeal to nature bias regarding COVID-19. As expected, epistemically suspect beliefs were interrelated, related to vaccination status, and to both types of trust. Moreover, trust in science had both a direct and indirect effect on vaccination status through both types of epistemically suspect beliefs. Trust in the wisdom of the common man had only an indirect effect on vaccination status. Contrary to the way they are typically portrayed, the two types of trust were unrelated. These results were largely replicated in the second study, in which we added pseudoscientific practices as an outcome; trust in science and the wisdom of the common man contributed to their prediction only indirectly, through epistemically suspect beliefs. We offer recommendations on how to make use of different types of epistemic authorities and how to tackle unfounded beliefs in communication during a health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Žeželj
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, LIRA Laboratory for Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marija Petrović
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Philosophy, LIRA Laboratory for Individual Differences, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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23
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Zhang R, Yan J, Jia H, Luo X, Liu Q, Lin J. Policy Endorsement and Booster Shot: Exploring Politicized Determinants for Acceptance of a Third Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine in China. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:421. [PMID: 36851298 PMCID: PMC9962357 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
China's recent termination of strict COVID-19 control necessitates taking a booster vaccine shot as a precaution against the pandemic as quickly as possible. A large body of research has examined people's attitudes toward and intentions for the booster shot. However, most studies failed to explore how China's sociopolitical context has shaped their attitude regarding the booster jab take-up. The current study utilizes data from a national survey adopting quota sampling to analyze the Chinese public's medical and non-medical considerations to determine their intention for the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The study found that thanks to China's initial successful lockdown policies, personal risk and benefit perceptions did not dominate their views regarding booster vaccination. Instead, respondents' gender, nationalism, endorsement of the zero-COVID policy, self-efficacy regarding vaccination, and perceived infection severity were the major factors underlying their booster shot intention. The situation highlights how the politicized context of China's COVID-19 control has impacted people's plans to practice preventive behaviors. It is necessary to offset the negative consequences. One strategy is to educate the Chinese public with more medically relevant information to help them make rational choices regarding vaccination and other protective measures. On the other hand, such education can utilize this nationalistic mental status to enhance the persuasion effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruifen Zhang
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
| | - Jun Yan
- School of Journalism and Information Communication, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Hepeng Jia
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
- School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
| | - Xi Luo
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
| | - Qinliang Liu
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215127, China
| | - Jingke Lin
- School of Journalism and Communication, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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24
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Pilch I, Turska-Kawa A, Wardawy P, Olszanecka-Marmola A, Smołkowska-Jędo W. Contemporary trends in psychological research on conspiracy beliefs. A systematic review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1075779. [PMID: 36844318 PMCID: PMC9945548 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1075779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The number of psychological studies on conspiracy beliefs has been systematically growing for about a dozen years, but in recent years, the trend has intensified. We provided a review covering the psychological literature on conspiracy beliefs from 2018 to 2021. Halfway through this period, the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, accompanied by an explosion of movements based on conspiracy theories, intensifying researchers' interest in this issue. Methods Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, the review systematically searched for relevant journal articles published between 2018 and 2021. A search was done on Scopus and Web of Science (only peer-reviewed journals). A study was included if it contained primary empirical data, if specific or general conspiracy belief(s) were measured and if its correlation with at least one other psychological variable was reported. All the studies were grouped for the descriptive analysis according to the methodology used, the participants' characteristics, the continent of origin, the sample size, and the conspiracy beliefs measurement tools. Due to substantial methodological heterogeneity of the studies, narrative synthesis was performed. The five researchers were assigned specific roles at each stage of the analysis to ensure the highest quality of the research. Results Following the proposed methodology, 308 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility and 274 articles (417 studies) meeting the inclusion criteria were identified and included in the review. Almost half of the studies (49.6%) were conducted in European countries. The vast majority of the studies (85.7%) were carried out on samples of adult respondents. The research presents antecedents as well as (potential) consequences of conspiracy beliefs. We grouped the antecedents of conspiracy beliefs into six categories: cognitive (e.g., thinking style) motivational (e.g., uncertainty avoidance), personality (e.g., collective narcissism), psychopathology (e.g., Dark Triad traits), political (e.g., ideological orientation), and sociocultural factors (e.g., collectivism). Conclusion and limitations The research presents evidence on the links between conspiracy beliefs and a range of attitudes and behaviors considered unfavorable from the point of view of individuals and of the society at large. It turned out that different constructs of conspiracy thinking interact with each other. The limitations of the study are discussed in the last part of the article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Pilch
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Turska-Kawa
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Political Science, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland,*Correspondence: Agnieszka Turska-Kawa,
| | - Paulina Wardawy
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Olszanecka-Marmola
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Political Science, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Wiktoria Smołkowska-Jędo
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
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25
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Čavojová V, Šrol J, Ballová Mikušková E. Scientific reasoning is associated with rejection of unfounded health beliefs and adherence to evidence-based regulations during the Covid-19 pandemic. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023:1-15. [PMID: 36718393 PMCID: PMC9876755 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04284-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Scientific reasoning and trust in science are two facets of science understanding. This paper examines the contribution of science understanding, over and above analytic thinking, to the endorsement of conspiracy and pseudoscientific beliefs about COVID-19 and behavioral intentions to engage in the recommended preventive behavior. We examined the direct and indirect effects of science understanding on normative health behavior in a representative sample of the Slovak population (N = 1024). The results showed more support for the indirect pathway: individuals with a better understanding of science generally had fewer epistemically suspect beliefs and as a consequence tended to behave more in line with the evidence-based guidelines and get vaccinated. Neither scientific reasoning nor trust in science directly predicted non-compliance with preventive measures, but analytic thinking correlated positively with non-compliance with preventive measures. The strongest predictor of epistemically suspect beliefs was trust in science, which also directly predicted the intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Therefore, reasoning about which experts or sources to believe (second-order scientific reasoning) has become more important than directly evaluating the original evidence (first-order scientific reasoning). Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-023-04284-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimíra Čavojová
- Institute of Experimental Psychology, Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jakub Šrol
- Institute of Experimental Psychology, Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Eva Ballová Mikušková
- Institute of Experimental Psychology, Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
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26
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Goreis A, Pfeffer B, Zesch HE, Klinger D, Reiner T, Bock MM, Ohmann S, Sackl-Pammer P, Werneck-Rohrer S, Eder H, Skala K, Czernin K, Mairhofer D, Rohringer B, Bedus C, Lipp R, Vesely C, Plener PL, Kothgassner OD. Conspiracy beliefs and COVID-19 guideline adherence in adolescent psychiatric outpatients: the predictive role of adverse childhood experiences. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2023; 17:13. [PMID: 36694261 PMCID: PMC9873214 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00554-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conspiracy beliefs have become widespread throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous studies have shown that endorsing conspiracy beliefs leads to lower protective guideline adherence (i.e., wearing face masks), posing a threat to public health measures. The current study expands this research across the lifespan, i.e., in a sample of adolescents with mental health problems. Here, we investigated the association between conspiracy beliefs and guideline adherence while also exploring the predictors of conspiracy beliefs. METHODS N = 93 adolescent psychiatric outpatients (57% female, mean age: 15.8) were assessed using anonymous paper-pencil questionnaires. Endorsement of generic and COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs was assessed, in addition to items measuring adherence to protective guidelines and mental health (stress, depressive symptoms, emotional/behavioral problems, and adverse childhood experiences). Multiple regressions and supervised machine learning (conditional random forests) were used for analyses. RESULTS Fourteen percent of our sample fully endorsed at least one COVID-19 conspiracy theory, while protective guidelines adherence was relatively high (M = 4.92, on a scale from 1 to 7). The endorsement of COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs-but not of generic conspiracy beliefs-was associated with lower guideline adherence (β = - 0.32, 95% CI - 0.53 to - 0.11, p < .001). Conditional random forests suggested that adverse childhood experiences and peer and conduct problems were relevant predictors of both conspiracy belief categories. CONCLUSION While a significant proportion of our sample of adolescents in psychiatric treatment endorsed conspiracy beliefs, the majority did not. Furthermore, and to some degree, contrary to public perception, we found that adolescents show relatively good adherence to public health measures-even while experiencing a high degree of mental distress. The predictive value of adverse childhood experiences and peer/conduct problems for conspiracy beliefs might be explained by compensatory mechanisms to ensure the safety, structure, and inclusion that conspiracies provide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Goreis
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bettina Pfeffer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heidi Elisabeth Zesch
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Diana Klinger
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tamara Reiner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Susanne Ohmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Petra Sackl-Pammer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sonja Werneck-Rohrer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Harald Eder
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katrin Skala
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klara Czernin
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dunja Mairhofer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Rohringer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Carolin Bedus
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ronja Lipp
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Vesely
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul L Plener
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Oswald D Kothgassner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics (CCP), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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27
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Pozza A, Giangrasso B, Baldo D, Fort A, Millozzi G, Iocca F, Angelo NL, Pugi D, Gualtieri G, Lorenzi L, Gioia F, Bocci Benucci S, Fioravanti G, Coluccia A, Ferretti F, Casale S. Mobile opportunity against stress: Open study protocol on the effectiveness of a mobile platform for stress self-management in the post-pandemic era. Front Psychol 2023; 13:917574. [PMID: 36755986 PMCID: PMC9901297 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.917574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mobile health platforms have shown promise in the management of various mental health conditions (including stress, anxiety, and depression) and cognitive behavioral strategies emerged as a popular and effective option offered by the platforms. This paper presents the protocol of a study aimed to test the effectiveness of a mobile platform that uses cognitive-behavioral strategies for stress self-management in the Tuscany region (Italy). The mobile app is adapted to the specific needs of each vulnerable population for which it is designed: young and older people, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs. The app will be evaluated on the following outcomes: (i) perceived susceptibility and severity of the pandemic situation, perceived benefits, and costs of preventive health behaviors, (ii) knowledge about Covid-19 preventive behaviors and negative consequences of social distancing, (iii) stress and psychopathological symptoms (i.e., anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms) and cognitive distortions. If successful, we expect that the platform could give various groups clinical benefits by providing symptom self-monitoring and early intervention, consolidating the number of mental health programs available, and decreasing barriers to treatment-seeking. This population-level approach has the potential to improve mental health outcomes in pandemic periods for many people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pozza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Barbara Giangrasso
- Department of Health Sciences, Psychology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - David Baldo
- Department of Information Engineering and Mathematics, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ada Fort
- Department of Information Engineering and Mathematics, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Iocca
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicole Loren Angelo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Daniele Pugi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Lore Lorenzi
- Santa Maria Alle Scotte University Hospital of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Gioia
- Department of Health Sciences, Psychology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Bocci Benucci
- Department of Health Sciences, Psychology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Fioravanti
- Department of Health Sciences, Psychology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Coluccia
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabio Ferretti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Casale
- Department of Health Sciences, Psychology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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28
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Faghy M, Arena R, Hills AP, Yates J, Vermeesch AL, Franklin BA, Popovic D, Strieter L, Lavie CJ, Smith A. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic: With hindsight what lessons can we learn? Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2023; 76:76-83. [PMID: 36481211 PMCID: PMC9722239 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2022.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to put forward some evidence-based lessons that can be learned from how to respond to a Pandemic that relate to healthy living behaviours (HLB). A 4-step methodology was followed to conduct a narrative review of the literature and to present a professional practice vignette. The narrative review identified 8 lessons: 1) peer review; 2) historical perspectives; 3) investing in resilience and protection; 4) unintended consequences; 5) protecting physical activity; 6) school closures; 7) mental health; and 8) obesity. As in all probability there will be another Pandemic, it is important that the lessons learned over the last three years in relation to HLB are acted upon. Whilst there will not always be a consensus on what to emphasise, it is important that many evidence-based positions are presented. The authors of this paper recognise that this work is a starting point and that the lessons presented here will need to be revisited as new evidence becomes available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Faghy
- School of Human Sciences, University of Derby, Derby, UK; Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Ross Arena
- School of Human Sciences, University of Derby, Derby, UK; Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Andrew P Hills
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA; School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - James Yates
- School of Human Sciences, University of Derby, Derby, UK; Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amber L Vermeesch
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Family and Community Nursing, School of Nursing, University of North, Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Barry A Franklin
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA; Preventive Cardiology and Cardiac Rehabilitation, Beaumont Health, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | - Dejana Popovic
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA; University Clinical Center of Serbia, Clinic for Cardiology, Belgrade, Serbia; Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Lindsey Strieter
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carl J Lavie
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute, Ochsner Clinical School-University of Queensland School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Andy Smith
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA
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29
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Aftab O, Murphy G. A single exposure to cancer misinformation may not significantly affect related behavioural intentions. HRB Open Res 2022. [DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13640.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, rates of online cancer misinformation have grown, with many concerned that this could lead patients to alter their daily behaviours or forego conventional treatment. However, no published study has investigated whether exposure to cancer misinformation can affect health behaviours or behavioural intentions. Method: In this preregistered study, participants (N = 774) were exposed to cancer misinformation in the form of news stories before rating their intentions to engage in related behaviours. Each participant was randomly presented with two of four possible false cancer headlines such as “Drinking fluoridated water shown to increase cancer risk by a factor of 3”, before rating their intentions to engage in certain behaviours (such as avoiding fluoridated water). Participants were also randomly assigned to either an accuracy-nudge intervention intended to reduce susceptibility to misinformation or a control condition with no intervention. Results: Viewing the fake cancer headlines did not significantly affect participants’ behavioural intentions – e.g., those who saw the headline regarding fluoridated water were not more likely to report intentions to reduce their fluoridated water intake. The accuracy-nudge intervention did not affect behavioural intentions. Conclusion: Although cancer misinformation is considered a threat to public health, we conclude that once-off exposures to cancer misinformation may not be sufficient to significantly alter behavioural intentions. We note that claims about the effects of cancer misinformation on behaviour have not been adequately researched and we therefore call for more research into the behavioural effects of cancer misinformation exposure, particularly repeated exposure or information passed from trusted sources.
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30
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Caliskan C, Kilicaslan A. Varieties of corona news: a cross-national study on the foundations of online misinformation production during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF COMPUTATIONAL SOCIAL SCIENCE 2022; 6:191-243. [PMID: 36530785 PMCID: PMC9746594 DOI: 10.1007/s42001-022-00193-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Misinformation in the media is produced by hard-to-gauge thought mechanisms employed by individuals or collectivities. In this paper, we shed light on what the country-specific factors of falsehood production in the context of COVID-19 Pandemic might be. Collecting our evidence from the largest misinformation dataset used in the COVID-19 misinformation literature with close to 11,000 pieces of falsehood, we explore patterns of misinformation production by employing a variety of methodological tools including algorithms for text similarity, clustering, network distances, and other statistical tools. Covering news produced in a span of more than 14 months, our paper also differentiates itself by its use of carefully controlled hand-labeling of topics of falsehood. Findings suggest that country-level factors do not provide the strongest support for predicting outcomes of falsehood, except for one phenomenon: in countries with serious press freedom problems and low human development, the mostly unknown authors of misinformation tend to focus on similar content. In addition, the intensity of discussion on animals, predictions and symptoms as part of fake news is the biggest differentiator between nations; whereas news on conspiracies, medical equipment and risk factors offer the least explanation to differentiate. Based on those findings, we discuss some distinct public health and communication strategies to dispel misinformation in countries with particular characteristics. We also emphasize that a global action plan against misinformation is needed given the highly globalized nature of the online media environment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s42001-022-00193-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cantay Caliskan
- Goergen Institute for Data Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, USA
| | - Alaz Kilicaslan
- Department of Sociology, Criminology and Anthropology, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Whitewater, USA
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31
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Tsamakis K, Tsiptsios D, Stubbs B, Ma R, Romano E, Mueller C, Ahmad A, Triantafyllis AS, Tsitsas G, Dragioti E. Summarising data and factors associated with COVID-19 related conspiracy theories in the first year of the pandemic: a systematic review and narrative synthesis. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:244. [PMID: 36320071 PMCID: PMC9623972 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00959-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Conspiracy theories can have particularly harmful effects by negatively shaping health-related behaviours. A significant number of COVID-19 specific conspiracy theories emerged in the immediate aftermath of the pandemic outbreak. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature on conspiracy theories related to COVID-19 during the first year of the pandemic (2020), to identify their prevalence, their determinants and their public health consequences. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed and PsycINFO to detect all studies examining any conspiracy theory related to COVID-19 between January 1st 2020, and January 10th 2021. Forty-three studies were included with a total of 61,809 participants. Between 0.4 and 82.7% of participants agreed with at least one conspiracy belief. Certain sociodemographic factors (young age, female gender, being non-white, lower socioeconomic status), psychological aspects (pessimism, blaming others, anger) and other qualities (political conservatism, religiosity, mistrust in science and using social media as source of information) were associated with increased acceptance of conspiracy theories. Conspiracy beliefs led to harmful health-related behaviours and posed a serious public health threat. Large-scale collaborations between governments and healthcare organizations are needed to curb the spread of conspiracy theories and their adverse consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Tsamakis
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London, UK ,grid.5216.00000 0001 2155 0800Second Department of Psychiatry, Attikon University General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece ,grid.264200.20000 0000 8546 682XInstitute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George’s University of London, London, UK
| | - Dimitrios Tsiptsios
- grid.12284.3d0000 0001 2170 8022Neurology Department, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Brendon Stubbs
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London, UK ,grid.37640.360000 0000 9439 0839South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, UK
| | - Ruimin Ma
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Eugenia Romano
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Christoph Mueller
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London, UK ,grid.37640.360000 0000 9439 0839South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, UK
| | - Ayesha Ahmad
- grid.264200.20000 0000 8546 682XInstitute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George’s University of London, London, UK
| | - Andreas S. Triantafyllis
- grid.414012.20000 0004 0622 6596Department of Cardiology, Asklepeion General Hospital Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Tsitsas
- grid.15823.3d0000 0004 0622 2843Counselling Centre, Harokopio University, Athens, Greece
| | - Elena Dragioti
- grid.5640.70000 0001 2162 9922Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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32
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Supply AS, Wijns N, Van Dooren W, Onghena P. It is probably a pattern: does spontaneous focusing on regularities in preschool predict reasoning about randomness four years later? EDUCATIONAL STUDIES IN MATHEMATICS 2022; 112:3-24. [PMID: 36277373 PMCID: PMC9574820 DOI: 10.1007/s10649-022-10187-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The many studies with coin-tossing tasks in literature show that the concept of randomness is challenging for adults as well as children. Systematic errors observed in coin-tossing tasks are often related to the representativeness heuristic, which refers to a mental shortcut that is used to judge randomness by evaluating how well a set of random events represents the typical example for random events we hold in our mind. Representative thinking is explained by our tendency to seek for patterns in our surroundings. In the present study, predictions of coin-tosses of 302 third-graders were explored. Findings suggest that in third grade of elementary school, children make correct as well as different types of erroneous predictions and individual differences exist. Moreover, erroneous predictions that were in line with representative thinking were positively associated with an early spontaneous focus on regularities, which was assessed when they were in second year of preschool. We concluded that previous studies might have underestimated children's reasoning about randomness in coin-tossing contexts and that representative thinking is indeed associated with pattern-based thinking tendencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sophie Supply
- Centre for Instructional Psychology and Technology, KU Leuven, Dekenstraat 2 box 3773, 3000 Louvain, Belgium
| | - Nore Wijns
- Centre for Instructional Psychology and Technology, KU Leuven, Dekenstraat 2 box 3773, 3000 Louvain, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Dooren
- Centre for Instructional Psychology and Technology, KU Leuven, Dekenstraat 2 box 3773, 3000 Louvain, Belgium
| | - Patrick Onghena
- Methodology of Educational Sciences Research Group, KU Leuven, Tiensestraat 102 box 3762, 3000 Louvain, Belgium
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33
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Celia G, Lausi G, Girelli L, Cavicchiolo E, Limone P, Giannini AM, Cozzolino M. COVID-19 related conspiracy beliefs and their relationship with defense strategies, emotions, powerlessness, attitudes, and time perspective. Front Psychol 2022; 13:939615. [PMID: 36304882 PMCID: PMC9592837 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.939615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted individual's life and society, and such an emergency has increased the likelihood of recurring conspiratorial thinking. There is much research on broader conspiratorial thinking and studies on COVID-19-related conspiratorial thinking has been growing worldwide, moreover, the negative consequences of COVID-19 specific conspiratorial beliefs for people's health are clear. However, person-centered research aiming at identify groups of individuals who share patterns of relations between COVID-19 specific conspiratorial beliefs and other psychological features is still scarce. A sample of 1.002 people (18-40 years old, M = 23; SD = 5.19) responded to a questionnaire administered online. The aim was to identify groups of individuals based on their beliefs about COVID-19 conspiracy theories and to compare the groups identified in terms of psychological characteristics associated such as automatic defense mechanisms, coping strategies, powerlessness, emotions, emotional regulation, attitudes toward the COVID-19, social distancing discontent, perceptions of COVID-19 severity and temporal perspective. A k-mean cluster analysis identified the groups of Believers (22.26%), Ambivalent believers (34.3%), and Non-believers (43.21%). The three groups differ particularly in terms of defense mechanisms, and time perspective. Results suggested the need to tailor interventions for individuals believing in COVID-19 conspiratorial theories based on differences in the psychological characteristics among the three groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Celia
- Department of Humanities, Literature, Cultural Heritage, Education Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giulia Lausi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Girelli
- Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Elisa Cavicchiolo
- Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Limone
- Department of Humanities, Literature, Cultural Heritage, Education Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Cozzolino
- Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
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34
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de Saint Laurent C, Murphy G, Hegarty K, Greene CM. Measuring the effects of misinformation exposure and beliefs on behavioural intentions: a COVID-19 vaccination study. Cogn Res Princ Implic 2022; 7:87. [PMID: 36183027 PMCID: PMC9526535 DOI: 10.1186/s41235-022-00437-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Misinformation has been a pressing issue since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, threatening our ability to effectively act on the crisis. Nevertheless, little is known about the actual effects of fake news on behavioural intentions. Does exposure to or belief in misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines affect people's intentions to receive such a vaccine? This paper attempts to address this question via three preregistered experiments (N = 3463). In Study 1, participants (n = 1269) were exposed to fabricated pro- or anti-vaccine information or to neutral true information, and then asked about their intentions to get vaccinated. In Study 2, participants (n = 646) were exposed to true pro- and anti-vaccine information, while Study 3 (n = 1548) experimentally manipulated beliefs in novel misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines by increasing exposure to the information. The results of these three studies showed that exposure to false information about the vaccines had little effect on participants' intentions to get vaccinated, even when multiple exposures led them to believe the headlines to be more accurate. An exploratory meta-analysis of studies 1 and 3, with a combined sample size of 2683, showed that exposure to false information both supporting and opposing COVID-19 vaccines actually increased vaccination intentions, though the effect size was very small. We conclude by cautioning researchers against equating exposure to misinformation or perceived accuracy of false news with actual behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gillian Murphy
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Karen Hegarty
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciara M Greene
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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Abstract
Introduction Methodology Results Discussion
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COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and its associated factors in Malaysia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266925. [PMID: 36048822 PMCID: PMC9436036 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of the COVID-19 vaccination programme to achieve herd immunity depends on the proportion of the population inoculated. COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy is a barrier to reaching a sufficient number of people to achieve herd immunity. This study aims to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and to identify the reasons contributing to vaccine hesitancy using the Theory of Planned Behavior. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between May 2021 to June 2021. Using exponential non-discriminative snowball sampling, participants were recruited via social media and telecommunication platforms. We used a questionnaire that obtained information on participant socio-demographics, vaccine hesitancy, pseudoscientific practices, conspiracy beliefs, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, main reasons for not intending to get the COVID-19 vaccine; influential leaders, gatekeepers and anti-or pro-vaccination lobbies; and global vaccine hesitancy. A total of 354 responses (mean age = 32.5 years old ±13.6; 70.3% females) were included for analysis. The prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was 11.6%. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was significantly and positively associated with those who agreed with influential leaders, gatekeepers, and anti- or pro-vaccination lobbies (adjusted B coefficient = 1.355, p = 0.014), having a “wait and see” attitude to see if the COVID-19 vaccine is safe (adjusted B coefficient = 0. 822, p <0.001), perceiving that the vaccine will give them COVID-19 (adjusted B coefficient = 0.660, p <0.002), planned to use masks/others precautions instead (adjusted B coefficient = 0.345, p = 0.038) and having higher scores in conspiracy beliefs (adjusted B coefficient = 0.128, p <0.001). Concern about the costs associated with the vaccine (adjusted B coefficient = -0.518, p <0.001), subjective norms (adjusted B coefficient = -0.341, p <0.001), and perceived behavioural control (adjusted B coefficient = -0.202, p = 0.004) were negatively associated with vaccine hesitancy. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Malaysia is low. Several factors were identified as being associated with vaccine hesitancy. Factors associated with vaccine hesitancy would be useful in tailoring specific interventions involving positive messages by influential leaders, which address vaccine misinformation and the wait-and-see attitude which may delay the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines.
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Imagining the Post-COVID-19 Polity: Narratives of Possible Futures. SOCIAL SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/socsci11080346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 crisis is arguably the most important development of the 21st century so far and takes its place alongside the great eruptions of the past century. As with any crisis, the current pandemic has stimulated visions and proposals for post-COVID-19 societies. Our focus is on narratives—both predictive and prescriptive—that envisage post-COVID-19 political societies. Combining narrative analysis with thematic analysis, we argue that societal changes conditioned by the pandemic have accelerated a turn toward five inter-related developments: A renaissance in rationality and evidence-based science; a return to social equality and equity, including wage equity and guaranteed incomes; a reimagining of the interventionist state in response to crises in the economy, society, the welfare state, and social order; a reorientation to the local and communitarian, with reference in particular to solidaristic mutual aid, community animation, local sourcing, and craft production; and the reinvention of democracy through deep participation and deliberative dialogical decision making. The empirical focus of our work is an analysis of predominantly legacy media content from the Canadian Periodicals Index related to life after the pandemic and post-COVID-19 society.
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Salazar-Fernández C, Baeza-Rivera MJ, Villanueva M, Bautista JAP, Navarro RM, Pino M. Predictors of COVID-19 Vaccine Intention: Evidence from Chile, Mexico, and Colombia. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:1129. [PMID: 35891293 PMCID: PMC9318622 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Although the evidence is consistent that vaccines for COVID-19 effectively prevent severe illness or death, the rapid development of vaccines has led to increased beliefs about possible negative consequences and conspiracy theories about the vaccine. Several factors influence whether or not people decide to be vaccinated. Some studies suggest that our perception of what significant others do and think influences our behavior. (2) Methods: This study evaluates the predictive role of beliefs about negative consequences of the COVID-19 vaccine, conspiracy beliefs about this vaccine, and social influence on the intention to vaccinate against COVID-19 in three Latin American and Caribbean countries: Chile, Mexico, and Colombia. Using convenience sampling, 2075 adults from Chile (48.3%), Mexico (27.6%), and Colombia (24.6%) participated by answering an online questionnaire with variables of interest. (3) Results: Despite the differences between countries, the results showed that the proposed model is invariant and explains between 56-66% of the COVID-19 vaccination intent. Specifically, controlling for age, socioeconomic status, political orientation, and educational level, we found that beliefs about the negative consequences of the COVID-19 vaccine were the main predictor followed by social influence. Beliefs in conspiracy theories did not predict vaccination intention (4) Conclusions: Considering these variables in campaigns to boost vaccination intention is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - María José Baeza-Rivera
- Laboratorio de Interacciones, Cultura y Salud, Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Temuco 4810101, Chile
| | | | | | - Regina M. Navarro
- CEPEC, Centro de Excelencia en Psicología Económica, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile;
| | - Mariana Pino
- Programa de Psicología, Universidad Autónoma del Caribe, Barranquilla 080020, Colombia;
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Petrović M, Žeželj I. Both a bioweapon and a hoax: the curious case of contradictory conspiracy theories about COVID-19. THINKING & REASONING 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/13546783.2022.2088618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marija Petrović
- Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Iris Žeželj
- Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Majid U, Ahmad M, Zain S, Akande A, Ikhlaq F. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and acceptance: a comprehensive scoping review of global literature. Health Promot Int 2022; 37:daac078. [PMID: 35788306 PMCID: PMC9278223 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
As countries continue the third year of the pandemic, we believe that there has been unfair attention to COVID-19 vaccine efficacy and safety, while tacitly ignoring serious challenges with vaccine uptake, without which vaccination may not be effective against the spread of COVID-19. While several studies have been published on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, there remains a need to conduct a comprehensive global analysis of vaccine hesitancy. We conducted a scoping review of 60 studies published globally on vaccine hesitancy and acceptance. We conducted a qualitative analysis to identify motivators and barriers to vaccination across several cultural and demographic contexts. We found the following factors to be relevant in any discussion about addressing or minimizing vaccine hesitancy: risk perceptions, trust in health care systems, solidarity, previous experiences with vaccines, misinformation, concerns about vaccine side effects and political ideology. We combine our insights from this comprehensive review of global literature to offer an important and practical discussion about two strategies that have been used to improve vaccine uptake: (i) communication and education and (ii) vaccine rollout and logistics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umair Majid
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mobeen Ahmad
- Department of Internal Medicine, Abington Memorial Hospital, Abington Jefferson Health, Abington, PA, USA
| | - Shahzadi Zain
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Adebisi Akande
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Fahham Ikhlaq
- Department of Health and Society, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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van Mulukom V, Pummerer LJ, Alper S, Bai H, Čavojová V, Farias J, Kay CS, Lazarevic LB, Lobato EJC, Marinthe G, Pavela Banai I, Šrol J, Žeželj I. Antecedents and consequences of COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs: A systematic review. Soc Sci Med 2022; 301:114912. [PMID: 35354105 PMCID: PMC8920084 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.114912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Belief in COVID-19 conspiracy theories can have severe consequences; it is therefore crucial to understand this phenomenon, in its similarities with general conspiracy belief, but also in how it is context-dependent. OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the available research on COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs and to synthesise this research to make it widely accessible. METHODS We present a synthesis of COVID-19 conspiracy belief research from 85 international articles, identified and appraised through a systematic review, in line with contemporary protocols and guidelines for systematic reviews. RESULTS We identify a number of potential antecedents of COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs (individual differences, personality traits, demographic variables, attitudes, thinking styles and biases, group identity, trust in authorities, and social media use), their consequences (protective behaviours, self-centred and misguided behaviours such as hoarding and pseudoscientific health practices, vaccination intentions, psychological wellbeing, and other negative social consequences such as discrimination and violence), and the effect sizes of their relations with the conspiracy beliefs. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that understanding both the potential antecedents and consequences of conspiracy beliefs and how they are context-dependent is highly important to tackle them, whether in the COVID-19 pandemic or future threats, such as that of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lotte J Pummerer
- Leibniz-Institut für Wissensmedien, Schleichstraße 6, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| | | | - Hui Bai
- Stanford University, United States
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Rothmund T, Farkhari F, Ziemer CT, Azevedo F. Psychological underpinnings of pandemic denial - patterns of disagreement with scientific experts in the German public during the COVID-19 pandemic. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2022; 31:437-457. [PMID: 35135408 PMCID: PMC9096582 DOI: 10.1177/09636625211068131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We investigated pandemic denial in the general public in Germany after the first wave of COVID-19 in May 2020. Using latent class analysis, we compared patterns of disagreement with claims about (a) the origin, spread, or infectiousness of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and (b) the personal risk from COVID-19 between scientific laypersons (N = 1,575) and scientific experts (N = 128). Two groups in the general public differed distinctively from expert evaluations. The Dismissive (8%) are characterized by low-risk assessment, low compliance with containment measures, and mistrust in politicians. The Doubtful (19%) are characterized by low cognitive reflection, high uncertainty in the distinction between true and false claims, and high social media intake. Our research indicates that pandemic denial cannot be linked to a single and distinct pattern of psychological dispositions but involves different subgroups within the general population that share high COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs and low beliefs in epistemic complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fahima Farkhari
- Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Germany
- University of Münster, Germany
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Determinants of the Hesitancy toward COVID-19 Vaccination in Eastern European Countries and the Relationship with Health and Vaccine Literacy: A Literature Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10050672. [PMID: 35632428 PMCID: PMC9146656 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10050672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Herd immunity is necessary to control the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, a low proportion of vaccinated people and low levels of vaccine acceptance have been noted in Eastern Europe. Our paper aimed to review the central attitudes associated with the hesitancy toward COVID-19 vaccination specific to Eastern European countries. The main Eastern European determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance identified from the included studies are: public confidence in the vaccines’ safety and efficacy, vaccine literacy, and public trust in the government and the medical system. Each of these determinants is discussed along with possible improvement measures. Variables specific to Eastern Europe that predict the willingness to vaccinate have also been highlighted. The specific attitudes and their context as identified by our review should be incorporated into local public health programs, with the ultimate goal of reducing viral spreading, mutation emergence, and COVID-19 morbidity and mortality both within the borders of Eastern Europe and beyond.
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Explaining Resistance to the COVID-19 Preventive Measures: A Psychological Reactance Perspective. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14084476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This paper examines the impact that psychological reactance has on the COVID-19 adherence-related behavior and vaccine motivations of the residents of Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional, online survey was administered, and 604 usable responses were analyzed to discover the level of psychological reactance, and its impact on adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures and vaccine intentions. Results of the Kruskal–Wallis H test demonstrated statistically significant evidence (p < 0.05) of differences between the mean ranks for four out of seven key COVID-19 preventive measures studied, and four out of five items related to vaccine motivations, as a result of psychological reactance. These results suggest that while the majority of the population is adhering to COVID-19 preventive measures, for the subset of the population that are not fully compliant, psychological reactance is a significant factor in influencing behavior. Governments are, therefore, recommended to ensure that their public health messages are autonomy supporting, and take into consideration psychological and personality-based differences in individuals.
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Čavojová V, Adamus M, Ballová Mikušková E. You before me: How vertical collectivism and feelings of threat predicted more socially desirable behaviour during COVID-19 pandemic. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 43:1-12. [PMID: 35340689 PMCID: PMC8934055 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03003-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated the relationship between outward orientation and COVID-related prosocial behavior, including adherence to containment measures, caring for others and providing support, limiting one's social life and responsible purchasing behavior. A sample of 500 Slovaks (250 women) aged between 18 and 86 (M = 44.32, SD = 15.66) participated in the study and responded to questions concerning their sociodemographic and personality characteristics, collectivism and individualism, the consciousness of future consequences and emotional responses to the pandemic. The results show that apart from the perceived threat of COVID-19, vertical collectivism is among the strongest antecedents of COVID-related prosocial behavior. Specifically, feelings of threat, vertical collectivism, conscientiousness, agreeableness, liberalism, and education predicted more prosocial behavior during the pandemic. Consequently, the study indicates that while excessive fear may have adverse effects on individuals' well-being, appealing to and cultivating collectivistic sentiments could contribute not only to containing the pandemic but also to making others' lives more bearable while it lasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimíra Čavojová
- Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences SAS, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Magdalena Adamus
- Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences SAS, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Faculty of Economics and Administration, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Eva Ballová Mikušková
- Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences SAS, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
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Ripp T, Röer JP. Systematic review on the association of COVID-19-related conspiracy belief with infection-preventive behavior and vaccination willingness. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:66. [PMID: 35292110 PMCID: PMC8923094 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00771-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In times of a pandemic, not only infections but also conspiracy narratives spread among people. These have the potential to influence the course of the pandemic. Here we summarize and critically evaluate studies from the first year of the pandemic presenting findings on the association between COVID-19-related conspiracy belief and infection-preventive behavior and vaccination willingness. METHOD A systematic literature search was conducted using the databases COVID-19 Data Portal, APA PsycArticles, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Scopus, and PubMed. After removing duplicates, studies meeting the previously defined inclusion and exclusion criteria were subjected to title and abstract screening and content reviewed and analyzed subsequently. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The systematic literature search yielded 17 studies meeting our pre-specified inclusion criteria. Twelve studies examined infection-preventive behavior (N = 16,485), and ten studies vaccination willingness (N = 20,210). In summary, belief in COVID-19-related conspiracy narratives was negatively associated with vaccination willingness and infection-preventive behavior. The results point to the importance of the content of the conspiracy narratives. Various explanatory approaches and possible moderator variables are discussed, referencing the state of research on conspiracy beliefs and health-related preventive behavior after the first year of the pandemic. We argue that future studies should strive for a consistent operationalization and use of the term conspiracy belief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilli Ripp
- Department of Psychology and Psychotherapy, Witten/Herdecke University, Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58455 Witten, Germany
| | - Jan Philipp Röer
- Department of Psychology and Psychotherapy, Witten/Herdecke University, Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58455 Witten, Germany
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Bronstein MV, Kummerfeld E, MacDonald A, Vinogradov S. Willingness to vaccinate against SARS-CoV-2: The role of reasoning biases and conspiracist ideation. Vaccine 2022; 40:213-222. [PMID: 34895784 PMCID: PMC8642163 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.11.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGR1OUND: Widespread vaccine hesitancy and refusal complicate containment of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Extant research indicates that biased reasoning and conspiracist ideation discourage vaccination. However, causal pathways from these constructs to vaccine hesitancy and refusal remain underspecified, impeding efforts to intervene and increase vaccine uptake. METHOD 554 participants who denied prior SARS-CoV-2 vaccination completed self-report measures of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine intentions, conspiracist ideation, and constructs from the Health Belief Model of medical decision-making (such as perceived vaccine dangerousness) along with tasks measuring reasoning biases (such as those concerning data gathering behavior). Cutting-edge machine learning algorithms (Greedy Fast Causal Inference) and psychometric network analysis were used to elucidate causal pathways to (and from) vaccine intentions. RESULTS Results indicated that a bias toward reduced data gathering during reasoning may cause paranoia, increasing the perceived dangerousness of vaccines and thereby reducing willingness to vaccinate. Existing interventions that target data gathering and paranoia therefore hold promise for encouraging vaccination. Additionally, reduced willingness to vaccinate was identified as a likely cause of belief in conspiracy theories, subverting the common assumption that the opposite causal relation exists. Finally, perceived severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection and perceived vaccine dangerousness (but not effectiveness) were potential direct causes of willingness to vaccinate, providing partial support for the Health Belief Model's applicability to SARS-CoV-2 vaccine decisions. CONCLUSIONS These insights significantly advance our understanding of the underpinnings of vaccine intentions and should scaffold efforts to prepare more effective interventions on hesitancy for deployment during future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael V Bronstein
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, MN, USA.
| | - Erich Kummerfeld
- Institute for Health Informatics, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Angus MacDonald
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Sophia Vinogradov
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
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Šrol J, Čavojová V, Ballová Mikušková E. Finding Someone to Blame: The Link Between COVID-19 Conspiracy Beliefs, Prejudice, Support for Violence, and Other Negative Social Outcomes. Front Psychol 2022; 12:726076. [PMID: 35095634 PMCID: PMC8795973 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.726076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the appeals of conspiracy theories in times of crises is that they provide someone to blame for what has happened. Thereby, they increase distrust, negative feelings, and hostility toward implicated actors, whether those are powerful social outgroups or one's own government representatives. Two studies reported here examine associations of COVID-19 conspiracy theories with prejudice, support for violence, and other and negative social outcomes. In Study 1 (N = 501), the endorsement of the more specific conspiracy theories about the alleged role of China was associated with more prejudiced views of Chinese and Italian people. In Study 2 (N = 1024), lowered trust in government regulations and increased hostility associated with the COVID-19 and generic conspiracy beliefs were correlated with justification of and willingness to engage in non-compliance with regulations, violent attacks on 5G masts, and anti-government protests. Across both of the studies, higher exposure to news about COVID-19 was associated with lower endorsement of conspiracy theories, but also with increased feelings of anxiety and lack of control, which in turn were correlated with higher COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs endorsement. We highlight the potential social problems which are associated with the wide-spread endorsement of COVID-19 conspiracy theories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Šrol
- Institute of Experimental Psychology, Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
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Ericson JD, Albert WS, Duane JN. Political affiliation moderates subjective interpretations of COVID-19 graphs. BIG DATA & SOCIETY 2022; 9:20539517221080678. [PMID: 35281347 PMCID: PMC8899844 DOI: 10.1177/20539517221080678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
We examined the relationship between political affiliation, perceptual (percentage, slope) estimates, and subjective judgements of disease prevalence and mortality across three chart types. An online survey (N = 787) exposed separate groups of participants to charts displaying (a) COVID-19 data or (b) COVID-19 data labeled 'Influenza (Flu)'. Block 1 examined responses to cross-sectional mortality data (bar graphs, treemaps); results revealed that perceptual estimates comparing mortality in two countries were similar across political affiliations and chart types (all ps > .05), while subjective judgements revealed a disease x political party interaction (p < .05). Although Democrats and Republicans provided similar proportion estimates, Democrats interpreted mortality to be higher than Republicans; Democrats also interpreted mortality to be higher for COVID-19 than Influenza. Block 2 examined responses to time series (line graphs); Democrats and Republicans estimated greater slopes for COVID-19 trend lines than Influenza lines (p < .001); subjective judgements revealed a disease x political party interaction (p < .05). Democrats and Republicans indicated similar subjective rates of change for COVID-19 trends, and Democrats indicated lower subjective rates of change for Influenza than in any other condition. Thus, while Democrats and Republicans saw the graphs similarly in terms of percentages and line slopes, their subjective interpretations diverged. While we may see graphs of infectious disease data similarly from a purely mathematical or geometric perspective, our political affiliations may moderate how we subjectively interpret the data.
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Pennycook G. A framework for understanding reasoning errors: From fake news to climate change and beyond. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.aesp.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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