Factors associated with a positive vaccination decision as described by vaccine-hesitant parents of pre-school-age children

Abstract Background Relatively few parents refuse all vaccinations for their children, but more and more have doubts and concerns about vaccination, even if their children have been vaccinated according to a vaccination program. This study identifies factors associated with a positive decision to vaccinate among vaccine-hesitant parents of preschool-aged children. Design and methods A descriptive qualitative study. The data were collected through an open-ended questionnaire administered to vaccine-hesitant parents. A total of 26 responses were received from vaccine-hesitant parents of pre-school-age children. Data was analyzed with inductive content analysis and reported using the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. Results Vaccine-hesitant parents of pre-school-age children experienced those factors promoting a positive vaccination decision related to: (1) vaccine confidence; (2) protecting the child; (3) effectiveness of the vaccination program, and (4) socio-cognitive barriers. Conclusion The results of this study highlight the diversity in presentation of vaccine hesitancy as well as the varied factors associated with the vaccination decision-making process. Health services can apply these findings directly in order to respond appropriately to parents’ concerns and improve parents’ vaccine confidence.