Work

Providing support to increase adherence to self-isolation requirements during a public health emergency

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Isolating infected individuals plays a crucial role in controlling highly infectious diseases. However adherence to self-isolation mandates can be low. This paper uses data from three studies (total N = 1002) conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic to examine how the provision of support to individuals can facilitate increased adherence to self-isolation measures. In two experimental studies we manipulated the levels of hypothetical support provided by the UK Government and the local community, and in a survey, we collected data on actual support received from family members while self-isolating. Taken together, our results indicate that providing support for self-isolation increases both self-isolation intentions and actual behaviour. However, the effects of support were dependent on the type of support offered, the type of self-isolation required (either between households or within the household), the source of support, and the ways that all these addressed participants’ personal circumstances (in particular, caring responsibilities). For support for self-isolation to be most effective in future pandemic management, therefore, it should be tailored to address specific barriers individuals face when required to self-isolate.

Source: International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2025.105556

Authors: Mark Atkinson, Fergus Neville, Evangelos Ntontis, Stephen Reicher

Institutions: University of St Andrews, Heriot-Watt University, The Open University

Language: English

Topic: COVID-19 Prevention and Impact

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,200