Psychological Factors Shaping Vaccine Hesitancy During COVID-19 in India

Abstract

Vaccine hesitancy represents the refusal or delay in vaccine acceptance, despite its availability. In developing countries, such as India, villages and areas with diminished awareness served as a breeding ground for rumors and false beliefs regarding COVID-19 vaccines. In this context, this study aimed to understand the behavioural, emotional, and cognitive factors contributing to the spread of misinformation and rumours. By employing semi-structured interview, this qualitative study collected data from participants. Thematic analysis revealed that negative perception towards vaccine, belief in non-scientific healing practices, negative nocebo emotional reactions led to vaccine hesitancy. These findings have implication in designing choice architecture and nudging desirable behaviour for intervention plan to curb future resistance and develop effective communication strategies to avert similar outbreaks.