Anti-Vaccine Beliefs and COVID-19 Information Seeking on Social Media: Examining Processes Influencing COVID-19 Beliefs and Preventative Actions

Authors

  • Christopher J. McKinley Montclair State University
  • Fanny Lauby William Paterson University

Keywords:

anti-vaccine beliefs, COVID-19 information seeking, social media, conspiracy beliefs

Abstract

This study explored how anti-vaccine beliefs and social media use operate as interrelated factors contributing to COVID-19–specific beliefs and actions. Results show that those harboring greater anti-vaccine sentiments rely strongly on social media sources for COVID-19 information. Tests of indirect effects show that COVID-19 information seeking on social media mediates the relationship between anti-vaccine beliefs and COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs. Furthermore, results support a three-step model linking anti-vaccine beliefs to reduced COVID-19 preventative actions through social media use and conspiracy beliefs. Although anti-vaccine beliefs and information seeking contribute to reduced prevention action, the results also indicate these factors have differing relationships with anti-vaccine intentions. Whereas anti-vaccine beliefs predict more vaccine resistance, COVID-19 information seeking on social media contributes to higher levels of vaccine efficacy and intentions.

Author Biographies

Christopher J. McKinley, Montclair State University

Christopher J. McKinley, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor in the School of Communication and Media at Montclair State University. Dr. McKinley specializes in health communication and media effects.

Fanny Lauby, William Paterson University

Assistant Professor of Political Science at William Paterson University

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Published

2021-09-28

Issue

Vol. 15 (2021)

Section

Articles

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