ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews a range of psychological determinants of vaccination. Behavioural intention is the most direct antecedent. It is directly conditioned by motivation. Informed by self-determination theory, the authors highlight the role of one form of motivation, autonomous motivation, in the emergence of this intention. Conversely, when vaccination is perceived as violating a sense of autonomy (through restrictive measures), it may give rise to reactance and a refusal to consent. Drawing on the 3C model. factors further upstream in behaviour are then considered, starting with trust. Confidence in the safety and efficacy of the vaccine is a crucial determinant of motivation and helps to shape positive attitudes towards vaccination. This confidence can be undermined by misinformation about the risks that vaccination poses to human health. Via the “truth bias”, such “fake news” are likely to influence vaccination intentions. The authors then turned to the second ‘C’, complacency, the lack of willingness to be vaccinated and show that the perception of low risks associated with the disease is one of its determinants. A variety of cognitive biases are discussed as potential drivers of complacency. Finally, the chapter addresses the 3rd C, comfort, which refers to the fact of being able to get vaccinated easily, given one’s abilities and lifestyle, and the possible fear of syringes, a significant obstacle for a large proportion of the population.
