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Optimism Bias and Perceptions of Behavioral Factors for Preventing Severe COVID-19 Complications

Author

Listed:
  • Erica Freer

    (College of Humanities, Arts Behavioral and Social Sciences, California State University, San Marcos)

  • Quinn Keefer

    (College of Humanities, Arts Behavioral and Social Sciences, California State University, San Marcos)

Abstract

We examine the presence of optimism bias in individuals' perceptions of factors associated with preventing severe complications from COVID-19. Consistent with optimism bias, we find for several factors, that engaging in a behavior is associated with viewing it as more influential for preventing illness severity. Specifically, we find that individuals who exercise more, eat healthier, and take dietary supplements rate these behaviors as more important for preventing severe complications from COVID-19.

Suggested Citation

  • Erica Freer & Quinn Keefer, 2022. "Optimism Bias and Perceptions of Behavioral Factors for Preventing Severe COVID-19 Complications," Journal of Behavioral Economics for Policy, Society for the Advancement of Behavioral Economics (SABE), vol. 6(1), pages 11-20, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:beh:jbepv1:v:6:y:2022:i:1:p:11-20
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    COVID-19; optimism bias; perceived-risk;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • D9 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics

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