Behavior of college students in public health emergencies based on IMB model

The frequency of global public health emergencies has risen significantly in recent years. During the coronavirus disease pandemic, it was observed that a proportion of college students lacked essential scientific knowledge and failed to implement necessary preventive measures, underscoring the urgency for targeted behavioral interventions. This study applies the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model to investigate college students' behavioral responses to public health emergencies. By quantifying the interplay between information, motivation, and behavioral skills, this research seeks to provide empirical evidence for developing effective emergency response strategies in China. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in February 2021 targeting university students in Tianjin, China. Data were collected via online questionnaires using convenience sampling. Valid responses from 235 participants were analyzed using structural equation modeling to examine the relationships among Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills constructs and preventive behaviors. The overall preventive behavior score was moderate (73.33%). The total effects of information, motivation, and behavioral skills on preventive behavior were 0.272, 0.343, and 0.653, respectively. Behavioral skills demonstrated the strongest direct impact on preventive behavior (β = 0.653, P < .001). Although motivation did not show a significant direct effect on behavior, it exerted a significant influence on behavioral skills. Behavioral skills are the primary determinant of preventive actions among college students during public health emergencies. Consequently, interventions should prioritize the enhancement of behavioral skills and self-efficacy, supported by information dissemination and motivational strategies as foundational elements.