Misinformation, Anticipated Regret, and Vaccine-Related Behaviors. Issue 9 (2nd September 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wong, Jody CS; Yang, Janet Z.
• Is Part Of: Journal of health communication. Volume 27:Issue 9(2022)
• Page Start: 644
• Page End: 653
• Publication Date: 2022-09-02
• Subjects: Communication in medicine -- Periodicals; 610.14
• DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2022.2148022
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1081-0730

Abstract

ABSTRACT: A national survey ( N = 1025) conducted in August 2021 reveals that Americans' belief in misinformation about COVID-19 was negatively associated with vaccine acceptance. Importantly, the more participants believe in misinformation, the less anticipated regret they experience for not getting vaccinated. Reduced anticipated regret is associated with lower levels of vaccination intention and vaccine acceptance. To counteract the negative impact of misinformation, this study reveals the potential of an under-researched emotion in overcoming vaccine hesitancy.