Behaviours and attitudes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic: Insights from a cross-national Facebook survey

Abstract

Abstract In the absence of medical treatment and vaccination, individual behaviours are key to controlling the spread of COVID-19. We developed a rapid response monitoring system through an online survey (the “COVID-19 Health Behavior Survey”). Participant recruitment takes places continuously via Facebook in eight countries (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States). The survey collects key information on people’s health, attitudes, behaviours, and social contacts. In this paper, we present results based on a total of 71,612 completed questionnaires, collected between March 13-April 19, 2020. We find sex-specific patterns, as women show higher threat perceptions, lower confidence in the healthcare system, and a higher likelihood of adopting preventive behaviours. Our findings also show higher awareness and concern among older respondents. Finally, we find spatio-temporal heterogeneity in threat perception, confidence in organisations, and adoption of preventive behaviours.