Ideological determinants of compliance with COVID-19 prevention behaviors

Abstract Historically, college campuses have been vulnerable to the spread of diseases and infection [1]. University students contributed significantly to the spread of the COVID-19 virus, and it is important to understand how those in high-spreading environments respond to public health crises [2]. This cross-sectional study uses a stratified random sample of 614 college students from a Midwestern public university to explore what perspectives, experiences, and attributes predict compliance with recommended COVID-19 prevention guidelines. Data were gathered in November, 2020 as initial vaccines were being trialed [3]. Results found high degrees of compliance with mask-wearing guidelines and avoiding large gatherings, but less compliance with social distancing. This study found several variables associated with at least one type of COVID-19 prevention behavior: political ideology, religious service attendance, age, socioeconomic status, and social support. More research is needed to further understand these findings as implications concern public health officials and university administrators in their efforts to keep their communities safe during public health crises.