Which Beliefs Predict Intention to Get Vaccinated against COVID-19? A Mixed-Methods Reasoned Action Approach Applied to Health Communication

Abstract

This research examined the underlying beliefs and psychological determinants of COVID-19 vaccination intention in order to inform effective health promotion efforts. We utilized the reasoned action framework in a mixed-methods, two-study approach. Study 1, an open-ended belief elicitation survey (N = 197), explored the underlying beliefs associated with intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19 once a vaccine becomes available. In a quantitative survey with a representative sample of U.S. adults, study 2 (N = 1656) tested the psychological determinants of intention to get vaccinated. Results revealed (1) the most common attitudinal, normative, and control beliefs about COVID-19 vaccination; (2) instrumental attitude as the strongest determinant of COVID-19 vaccination intention; and (3) ‘achieving peace of mind’ as an effective target for health promotion efforts. Further implications and directions are discussed.

Disclosure Statement

No potential competing interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Texas A&M College of Liberal Arts COVID-19 Innovation Grant Program.