The impact of gender on emotional reactions, perceived susceptibility and perceived knowledge about COVID-19 among the Israeli public. Issue 6 (15th January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Levkovich, Inbar; Shinan-Altman, Shiri
• Is Part Of: International health. Volume 13:Issue 6(2021)
• Page Start: 555
• Page End: 561
• Publication Date: 2021-01-15
• Subjects: COVID-19 -- emotional reactions -- gender differences -- perceived knowledge about COVID-19 risk factors -- perceived susceptibility -- precautionary behaviour; World health -- Periodicals; Public health -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Medical policy -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; 362.1091724
• DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihaa101
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1876-3413

Abstract

Abstract: Background: The current COVID-19 outbreak is seriously affecting the lives and health of people across the globe. While gender remains a key determinant of health, attempts to address the gendered dimensions of health face complex challenges. Methods: In a cross-sectional study 482 participants (men=237, women=245) completed questionnaires on precautionary behaviour, perceived knowledge about COVID-19 risk factors, emotional reactions toward COVID-19 and perceived susceptibility. We examined gender differences in perceived knowledge about COVID-19 risk factors, healthy behaviours, threat perceptions and emotional responses, as well as the role of gender as a moderating factor. Results: Women reported higher levels of precautionary behaviour ( t (475)=3.91, p<0.001) and more negative emotional reactions toward COVID-19 ( t (475)=6.07, p<0.001). No gender differences emerged in perceived susceptibility or knowledge about COVID-19. The multiple regression model is significant and explains 30% of the variance in precautionary behaviour, which was found to be higher among women and older participants, those with higher perceived knowledge about COVID-19 risk factors and those with higher emotional reactions. Gender exhibited a significant moderating role in the relationship between perceived knowledge and precautionary behaviour (B=0.16, SE=0.07, β=0.13, p=0.02, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.30). Conclusion: Women exhibited higher levels of precautionary behaviour and emotional responses.