Difficult Health Conversations: Dilemmas That Vaccinated People in the United States Experienced When Discussing...

During the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines, public health officials in the United States called upon vaccinated individuals to encourage reluctant family members to get vaccinated. Due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic becoming politically polarized, encouraging a loved one to get vaccinated could create a difficult conversation that was emotionally charged and accentuated ingroup/outgroup dynamics. Using normative rhetorical theory as a theoretical lens, this study investigates the dilemmas individuals describe when discussing how to talk with family members about getting vaccinated. Qualitative analysis of responses from 100 participants revealed four dilemmas: (a) I want to use facts, but they don't trust the facts, (b) I want to listen to/respect their views while challenging their views, (c) I want to push hard enough without pushing too hard, and (d) I want to respect their right to choose while guiding them to the "right" choice. Participants offered recommendations for navigating each dilemma. Theoretical implications detailing how dilemmas reflect tension within the public/private binary are explored, as well as practical suggestions for public health officials who want to encourage the public to talk with loved ones about politicized health issues.