Perceptions of Macro- and Microlevel Factors Predict Covid-19 Health and Self-Reported Adherence to Safety Guidelines

Abstract

Abstract. Introduction: Adherence to Covid-19 safety measures reduces the spread of the pathogen and lowers mortality rates. The present study examines microlevel (including sociodemographics, health risk factors, and mental health) and perceived macrolevel variables (including freedom, justice, and wealth) concerning self-perceived and self-reported Covid-19 safety measure adherence across eight countries. Methods: Self-reported adherence to Covid-19 safety measures and its potential predictors were assessed in representative samples from eight countries (total N = 7,437; Germany, France, Spain, Poland, Russia, Sweden, UK, US) by online surveys (end of May 2020 to the beginning of June 2020). Results: Self-reported adherence was positively predicted by female sex, higher age, higher social status, belonging to a Covid-19 risk group, being personally affected (physically, economically, and mentally), and positive mental health. Adherence was negatively predicted by depression and anxiety. Perceptions of governmental communication as credible and honest, government communication being guided by political interests, the feeling of being well informed, and perceived country-level freedom positively predicted self-reported adherence. Perceived country-level justice negatively predicted adherence, and perceived country-wide wealth was unrelated to it. Conclusions: Self-reported adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols is negatively predicted by depression, anxiety, and perceived justice, is positively predicted by perceived freedom, and not predicted by perceived country-level wealth.