Underlying motivators for anti-vaccination attitudes amongst regional Sunshine Coast parents in Australia

Abstract

Background: The Immunisation Register of Australia reports that childhood vaccination rates in some regional areas are below herd immunity levels. This is a concern for the health and well-being of society, as regions with low vaccination rates have an increased risk of disease outbreaks. Objective: This study explored psychological motivators as predictors of anti-vaccination attitudes amongst parents living on the Sunshine Coast (Queensland), Australia. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design explored anti-vaccination attitudes, conspiratorial thinking, psychological reactance, trust in government and magical beliefs about health in 1050 parents (968 mothers). Results: The predictor variables significantly accounted for 42% of the variance in parental anti-vaccination attitudes. The strongest predictor of anti-vaccination attitudes was lower levels of trust in government. Conclusion: The findings contribute to understanding of psychological factors motivating anti-vaccine attitudes in Australian parents. The findings may help inform health communication campaign effectiveness in their alignment with individual underlying motivations.