Adherence to protective measures during the COVID-19 pandemic: The role of trust in science
Final Report Abstract
This research project examined the relationship between trust in science and personal protective behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Study 1, we replicated existing correlative findings from the literature and showed that trust in science was positively associated with willingness to engage in protective behaviors (such as wearing a mask). This effect was mediated by perceived response efficacy. Study 2 examined the extent to which scientists' public statements about the COVID-19 pandemic affect trust in science. Participants who were presented primarily with statements that later turned out to be false had lower trust in science than participants who were presented primarily with correct statements. Study 3 examined whether experimentally reduced trust in science had an effect on intention to engage in protective behaviors. Contrary to our hypotheses, this effect could not be demonstrated. Study participants who saw primarily wrong statements by scientists had lower trust in science but even higher intentions to wear a mask and to be vaccinated. To explain this unexpected finding, a fourth study was conducted. It is likely that the experimental manipulation also triggered other, opposing psychological processes (e.g., fear) that also influenced intentions. In addition, Study 4 included a control group that did not see any statements from scientists. The results of Study 4 showed that study participants who saw mostly wrong statements from scientists had lower trust in science than the other two groups. However, participants who saw mostly correct statements did not have higher trust than the control group. This finding suggests that trust in science can be decreased in experimental settings, but increasing trust seems to be more difficult. In contrast to the previous study, we found no effect on intentions in Study 4. Overall, the present research project emphasizes that expert statements have the potential to influence people's trust in science during a pandemic. However, the resulting effects on intentions for protective behaviors are inconsistent and require further research.
Publications
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Persönliches Schutzverhalten in Zeiten der COVID-19-Pandemie: Steigert Vertrauen in die Wissenschaft die Impfbereitschaft? Paper presented at the 15th Conference of the German Health Psychology Chapter in the DGPs, Erlangen, Germany (remote).
Dohle S.; Wingen, T. & Posten A.-C.
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Attitudes Towards Science During the Covid-19 Pandemic. European Journal of Health Communication, 3(1), 98-118.
Wingen, Tobias; Lecuona, Oscar & Dohle, Simone
