Engagement in Social Distancing: An Empirical Test of Media, Intra-Family and Doctor-Patient Communication During the COVID-19 Pandemic

ABSTRACT

Based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this study investigated how media presentations, intra-family communication, and doctor-patient communication influence compliance with social distancing orders during the initial COVID-19 outbreak. Results from an online survey in China suggested that media risk communication, intra-family communication, and doctor-patient communication enhanced respondents’ intention for social distancing via the mediations of positive attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. Additionally, trust in government, information verification, and active media engagement can improve the outcome of risk communication. This study underscores the value of TPB framework in fostering health promotion. By analyzing the interplay between psychological constructs and communication channels, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of compliance behavior amid pandemics, facilitating informed policy-making and promoting public cooperation. Ultimately, these insights illuminate pathways to cultivate informed decision-making and responsible actions during health crises.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The work was supported by the National Office for Philosophy and Social Sciences [20CXW017].

Notes on contributors

Hongliang Chen

Hongliang Chen (Ph.D., Texas A&M University) is an assistant professor at the College of Media and International Culture at Zhejiang University. His research interests include health communication, new media study, and risk communication.

David Atkin

David Atkin (Ph.D., Michigan State University) is a professor at the Department of Communication at University of Connecticut. His research focuses on the adoption, use and regulation of new media.

Qike Jia

Qike Jia is a doctoral student at the School of Management at Zhejiang University of Technology. Her research interests include health management, risk management, and communication technology.