Monitoring behavioural insights related to COVID-19
Cornelia Betsch
Lothar H Wieler
Katrine Habersaat
on behalf of theCOSMO group†
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Published:April 02, 2020DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)30729-7
The rapidly evolving coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is placing an overwhelming burden on health systems and authorities to respond with effective and appropriate interventions, policies, and messages. A critical element in reducing transmission of the virus is rapid and widespread behavioural change. Evidence shows that a perceived lack of consistency, competence, fairness, objectivity, empathy, or sincerity in crisis response in the public could lead to distrust and fear.1 Conversely, when the public perceives measures as having these characteristics, as well as being easily understood and communicated through trusted and accessible channels, and when the necessary services are available, people are able to make informed choices, protect themselves, and comply with recommended practices.