Applying an extended protection motivation theory to predict Covid-19 vaccination intentions and uptake in 50–64 year olds in the UK

Objectives

To examine the correlates of Covid-19 vaccination intentions and subsequent uptake as outlined in an extended version of protection motivation theory (PMT).

Design

A two-wave online survey conducted at the start of the vaccination rollout to 50–64 year olds in the UK and three months later.

Measures

Unvaccinated UK adults (N = 438) aged 50–64 completed baseline measures from PMT (perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, maladaptive response rewards, response efficacy, self-efficacy, response costs, intention) as well as measures of injunctive and descriptive norms, demographics, Covid-19 experiences, and past influenza vaccine uptake. Self-reported uptake of a Covid-19 vaccination was assessed three months later (n = 420).

Results

The extended PMT explained 59% of the variance in Covid-19 vaccination intentions, after controlling for demographics, Covid-19 experiences, and past influenza vaccine uptake. All extended PMT variables, with the exception of perceived severity and descriptive norms, were significant independent predictors of intentions. In line with national figures, 94% of the sample reported having received a Covid-19 vaccination at follow-up with intention found to be the key predictor of uptake.

Conclusions

Interventions to increase Covid-19 vaccination uptake need to increase intentions to be vaccinated by emphasizing the benefits of vaccination (e.g., in terms of reducing risk) and likely approval from others while also addressing the concerns (e.g., safety issues) and common misperceptions (e.g., natural immunity versus vaccines) that people might have about Covid-19 vaccines. Future research is needed in countries, and on groups, with lower uptake rates.