Effect of risk perception, perceived susceptibility and trustworthiness of information sources on maladaptive behaviour during COVID-19: An investigation of psychological well-being
Keywords:
Influenza, Maladaptive Behaviour, Medical condition, Pandemic, Perceived SusceptibilityAbstract
Background: The rapid spread of precipitous COVID-19 pandemic caused havoc across the globe. The behavioural changes during the pandemic significantly contributed to define the 'new normal'. The study explored the association between risk perception, perceived susceptibility, perceived trustworthiness of information sources and maladaptive behavioural response during COVID-19 pandemic in India using a sample of two hundred thirty-two participants from across the country. Regression analysis was conducted. The results suggested significant correlations between perceived risk, perceived susceptibility, perceived trustworthiness of information sources and maladaptive behavioural response during the course of unprecedented pandemic. The risk of COVID-19 reaching the community was high among participants. Friends, family and general practitioners were considered as trustworthy sources of information in comparison with media and government. The susceptibility of a pandemic by a new influenza virus was the highest in the participants when compared with several other medical conditions. In the behavioural response, stocking up and staying indoors was highly considered. In the unique and unparalleled setting of a pandemic, risk perception, perceived susceptibility, perceived trustworthiness of information sources and maladaptive behavioral response correlated significantly with each other.