How perceived scarcity predicted cooperation during early pandemic lockdown

Area of Science:

• Social Psychology
• Behavioral Economics
• Pandemic Studies

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic led to decreased material and socio-psychological resources.
• Understanding individual responses to resource scarcity is crucial for promoting societal well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how perceived scarcity of material and socio-psychological resources during the pandemic influenced cooperation.
• To examine the relationship between scarcity perception and prosocial behavior in the context of public health measures.

Main Methods:

• Utilized two Public Good Games (PGGs) to measure cooperation preferences.
• Assessed participants' perceived scarcity of material and socio-psychological resources during the pandemic.
• Measured cooperation through contributions of money and time (indoor hours to shorten lockdown).

Main Results:

• Perceived material scarcity did not correlate with cooperation levels.
• Increased perceived scarcity of socio-psychological wellbeing (e.g., social contact) predicted higher cooperation.
• Perceived scarcity of freedom (e.g., movement restrictions) predicted decreased willingness to comply with lockdown measures.

Conclusions:

• Missing social contact may foster prosociality, highlighting the importance of social connection.
• Scarcity of freedom can decrease compliance with public health norms.
• Individual differences in scarcity perception are vital for promoting adherence to societal rules and norms.