Cyberchondria and perceived stress as mediated by fear of pandemic fear: A pandemic and post-pandemic comparative study from India

Abstract

The present study compares the association between cyberchondria with perceived stress through fear of COVID-19 during the pandemic and post pandemic scenario. Studies were conducted in two waves among 651 and 742 Indian university students respectively. Structural equation modeling was performed for analysis. The study revealed the positive association between the cyberchondria and perceived stress, and supported the mediation of pandemic fear. A reciprocal model relationship between the cyberchondria and perceived stress also found to be significant with fear of COVID-19 as mediator. Whereas, the relations found less strong during the post pandemic scenario compare to pandemic. A collective approach, including the individuals, family and friends, psychological practitioners, institutions and authorities, may provide a betterment of current situation with proper analysis and regulations. Future studies may develop longitudinal design to explore behavioral changes over time.