The role of altruism versus self-interest in Covid-19 vaccination uptake in the UK

Abstract

Objectives The aim of the current study was to explore self-interest, kin-altruism and non-kin altruism reasons that influence people to vaccinate against Covid-19.

Study design Cross-sectional, employing a fully repeated measures design.

Methods Participants (N= 178) answered questions on perceived threat and likelihood of infection, vaccination status and opinion on mandatory vaccination. Participants also rated a set of statements that asked how likely these would influence them and others to vaccinate against Covid-19. Statements reflected either self-interest, kin altruism or non-kin altruism.

Results Just over half of the sample (50.8%) reported likelihood of infection as somewhat or extremely likely and almost three quarters (74.2%) reported that Covid-19 posed a minor or moderate threat to their physical health. Almost three quarters (74.3%) of the sample were vaccinated with just over half (56.2%) in favour of mandatory vaccination. A 2 (self/other) x 3 (self-interest/kin altruism/non-kin altruism) fully repeated measures ANOVA showed that kin-altruistic reasons were rated most highly, regardless of whether this was regarding oneself or others. Participants rated others as having greater self-interest reasons for vaccination compared to oneself, whereas non-kin altruism reasons for vaccination were rated higher for oneself, compared to others.

Conclusion Highlighting the benefits of vaccination for close relatives and vulnerable others in the population would be a useful strategy for government to employ when urging the public to vaccinate against Covid-19.