Using Rational Choice Theory to Explore Factors Impacting Contact Tracing Application Adoption

ABSTRACT

Effective contact tracing is an important tool in trying to control the spread of highly infectious diseases. Utilizing the theory of reasoned action and rational choice theory, this study explores factors impacting the adoption of mobile contact tracing application. Findings indicate that perceived benefits of usage and perceived costs of non-usage positively impact an individual’s attitude toward usage intention, while information security concern as perceived cost of usage has a negative effect.

KEYWORDS:

• Theory of Reasoned Action
• Rational Choice Theory
• Contact Tracing
• Mobile Technology
• Security

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Vess L. Johnson

Vess L. Johnson is an Assistant Professor of Information Systems and Decision Sciences at the University of North Texas in Denton, TX. He received his Ph.D. from the University of North Texas, MS in Computer Science, BA in Philosophy and BS in Mathematics from Mississippi State University. Prior to returning to academia, he served as the President and CEO of multiple companies in a professional career spanning over 20 years. His work has appeared in journals including Information and Management, The European Journal of Information Systems, MISQ Executive, Communications of the ACM, Computers in Human Behavior, and The Journal of Computer Information Systems.

Sara Memarian Esfahani

Sara Memarian Esfahani is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Information Technology and Decision Science of the University of North Texas. She is working toward her doctorate in Business Computer Information Systems. Her research interest is centered around the Privacy and Security, Disruptive Technologies, and Social Media Analytics. Sara holds an MBA with a minor in strategic planning and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the Azad University of Tehran. She has published papers in The Journal of Computer Information Systems and AMCIS Proceedings.

Hossein Mohit

Hossein Mohit (Corresponding Author) is a Ph.D. candidate at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business at the University of North Texas majoring in Business Computer Information Systems in the Department of ITDS. He holds a BS in industrial engineering from Azad University and an MS in industrial engineering from the University of Science and Culture. His research interests include Blockchain and Cryptocurrency, IT adoption, social network analysis, big data analytics, and game addiction. His work has appeared in journals including The Journal of Computer Information Systems and MISQ Executive.