Association between knowledge, risk perception of social issues, and preventive behavior during the first wave of COVID-19

Abstract

We conducted an exploratory Internet survey to examine the association among the amount of risk-related knowledge, risk perception, and preventive behavior observed during the early stages of the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. We determined whether factors influencing risk perception and preventive behavior function as well in the case of COVID-19 as they do for other hazards. Knowledge was measured using subjective estimation and objective measurement via a quiz. To assess risk perception, we asked participants about the physical health risk to various targets (such as themselves, their families, the elderly, children, and the general population). Additionally, they were asked about the risk of social problems associated with the pandemic (including physical health concerns associated with self-restraint, mental health, environment, economy, sovereignty, and discrimination). The results showed that participants’ interest in COVID-19 was generally high; however, detailed knowledge about the incubation period, infection, and intensive contact was lacking. Interest was most significantly associated with perceived risk, followed by subjective knowledge, objective knowledge, and government trust. Based on the factor analysis results, preventive behaviors were categorized as: restrictions on going out and health care, coughing and handwashing precautions, and stockpiling. Overall, interest, subjective knowledge, government trust, and public perception of infection risk promoted preventive behaviors, while higher economic risk perception inhibited preventive behaviors.