Abstract
This paper explores how trust in formal information sources (government and media) and informal information sources (interpersonal) about COVID-19 influences compliance with preventive measures. This cross-sectional study uses convenience sampling of 478 adult participants. Data analyses using structural equation modeling with multigroup comparisons examine hypothesized relationships between trust in information sources and preventative behaviors and social distancing. Results suggest that understanding of COVID-19 causes is related to trust in formal information sources, but not to trust in informal information. Self-efficacy for prevention is related to trust in informal information sources, but not to trust in formal information sources. Worry about contracting COVID-19 is related to trust in formal information sources, but not to informal ones. Engaging in preventive measures is linked to both self-efficacy for prevention and worry, while social distancing was related only to worry. These findings have important implications for public health policy guidelines centered on clear and truthful media messages. The findings also facilitate comparative analyses of reactions to information sources across a decade of evolving attitudes toward media and government, between two cultures (Hong Kong vs. the USA), and between two different global pandemics.
Highlights
In March 2020, the United States of America (USA) declared a national emergency, put international travel restrictions into place, suggested social distancing at all levels of society, and advised anyone who felt sick and/or households with anyone testing positive to stay home
We found prevention and social distancing measures were significantly correlated with formal information sources and with worry about contracting COVID-19
This study examined a hypothesized model in which the effects of the predictor variables trust in formal and informal information sources are mediated through beliefs and attitudes to influence behaviors relating to preventative measures of mask-wearing and hand washing along with social distancing
Summary
In March 2020, the United States of America (USA) declared a national emergency, put international travel restrictions into place, suggested social distancing at all levels of society, and advised anyone who felt sick and/or households with anyone testing positive to stay home. Older Americans and those with underlying health conditions were warned to take extra precautions to protect their health. The federal government of the USA, in collaboration with the CDC and other health experts, announced these suggestions, support varied among state and local leaders and across traditional media outlets [3]. This resulted in mixed and conflicting messaging that undermined public trust of various information sources. Exploring trust perceptions of various sources of health information and associated perceptions of infection risk and self-efficacy for prevention may provide insight into what factors influence self-protective decision-making and behaviors.
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