Individual differences in COVID-19 mitigation behaviors: The roles of age, gender, psychological state, and financial status.

ABSTRACT: The present study examined individual characteristics potentially associated with changes in mitigation behaviors (social distancing and hygiene) recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Analysis of online survey responses from 361 adults, ages 20-78, with US IP addresses, identified significant correlates of adaptive behavioral changes, with implications for preventive strategies and mental health needs. The extent to which individuals changed their mitigation behaviors was unrelated to self-rated health or concern regarding the personal effects of COVID-19 but was related to concern regarding the effects of the pandemic on others. Thus, mitigation behaviors do not appear to be primarily motivated by self-protection. Importantly, adaptive changes in mitigation behavi

SUBMITTER: Myerson J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8454939 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature