Perceived loss of resources and adherence to guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel

Area of Science:

• Social Psychology
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated widespread public health guidelines to curb transmission.
• Understanding factors influencing citizen adherence to these guidelines is crucial for effective pandemic management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate variables associated with adherence to COVID-19 guidelines among Israeli citizens.
• To examine the moderating role of controllability beliefs on the relationship between perceived resource loss and guideline adherence.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study design was employed, surveying a panel of Israeli citizens three times between June and August 2020.
• Questionnaires assessed perceived loss of resources and assumptions about controllability.
• Statistical analyses explored the relationships between these variables and adherence to public health guidelines.

Main Results:

• Perceived loss of resources was linked to adherence, but this relationship was moderated by controllability beliefs.
• Individuals who believed their actions could control outcomes showed a stronger association between resource loss and guideline adherence.
• This suggests that a sense of personal control amplifies the impact of resource loss on behavioral compliance.

Conclusions:

• Public health messaging during pandemics should incorporate elements that bolster perceived controllability.
• Empowering individuals with the belief that their actions can lead to positive outcomes is key to enhancing adherence to guidelines, even amidst perceived resource loss.