‘Cough and sneeze into your elbow’: a field study testing the effects of persuasive messages on compliance with behavioral measures to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses

In conclusion, messages positively influenced behavioral determinants - a critical prerequisite for behavior change and compliance. Findings also highlight that people are likely more willing to comply with measures that have less adverse personal and social impact. To enhance compliance more is needed, for instance explanations of the relevance and effectiveness of measures, and practical support to enact the measures. Practical and theoretical implications are discussed.