Global Pandemics: The Manifestation of Societal and Economic Havoc

Abstract

The rise of contagious disease within recent history has highlighted the ineffectiveness of the American systems set in place to deal with pandemic policies and preparedness. The confused relationship between federal and state powers as it relates to delegating roles during national health emergencies was especially highlighted during the Trump administration, understood through their decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Applying the protection motivation theory, a heavily research psychological theorem, to behaviors seen during past and current pandemics can offer insight into the reactionary missteps of both the government and citizens today.