The Role of Defensive Pessimism and Efficacy Beliefs in Influenza Vaccine Decision-making

Influenza vaccination behaviour has been widely investigated using the epidemiologic and decision-making approach. Previous studies have indicated that apart from socio-demographic and medical factors, risk perception and its associated emotions were linked with influenza vaccination. Despite these findings, the affective and cognitive processes underlying vaccine decision making remain unclear. The mechanism of anticipatory strategies in defensive pessimism and efficacy beliefs offer insights into how risk perception is translated into behavioural action. Using a prospective design, this study aims to (1) assess the relations of risk perception to influenza vaccination behaviour among Hong Kong Chinese, and (2) explore the role of the defensive mechanism and efficacy beliefs in influenza vaccine decision making. Participants of the study will be assessed on their vaccination status during the major flu season in Hong Kong for two consecutive years. The findings of the study will shed light on the future development of theoretical models of vaccine decision making and the design of public health strategies to decrease influenza mortality and control morbidity in a local as well as an international context.