Why not get vaccinated? A study on psychological reasons

Santo F. Di Nuovo, Chiara Moschetto, Valeria Narzisi, Rossana Smeriglio

Abstract


The article deals with the psychological reasons pro or against vaccination. After a review of the literature, a study was conducted aimed at evaluating the differences in some psychological characteristics between people who have definitely consented to vaccination and persons opposed to vaccines. Two groups were selected pro or against vaccination (n = 54 each), balanced by gender, age, education and work activity. The research was conducted using an online form, including opinion, attitude and motivation questionnaires, test on stress and attribution of control in health issues, and the 10-item Big Five Inventory Test.


The results show that a less favorable attitude toward vaccines correlates with a lack of confidence in institutions, linked to external Locus of Control of Health, and to the perception that the actual risk is artificially increased for hidden reasons in vaccination campaigns; while the personality variables seem to have less influence.


These results could be helpful for addressing the vaccination campaign to specific targets, and overcoming psychological biases and prejudices.

Keywords


Vaccines; No-Vax; Psychological attitudes; Personality; Health Locus of Control.

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.13129/2282-1619/mjcp-3441

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