Effects of political treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic on infection-prevention behavior and risk perception: A panel data analysis of Japan

Abstract

This study examined the impact of the Japanese government's pandemic policies on people's risk perception and infection-prevention behaviors through the analysis of panel survey data conducted from January 2020 to May 2023. Study 1 focused on restrictive policies, examining their effects in combination with the regions where these policies were implemented. Study 2 focused on the relaxation policy, considering their effects in combination with individual difference factors. The results of Studies 1 and 2 revealed that neither restrictive nor relaxation policies had a statistically significant impact on infection-prevention behaviors and risk perception. However, significant temporal changes were observed in some dependent variables in both studies. Following the implementation of restrictive policies, both infection-prevention behaviors and risk perception increased. After the lifting of these policies, while social activities became more active, hygienic behaviors continued. Conversely, after the relaxation policy, hygienic behaviors decreased and the perception of dread risk diminished. This research offers crucial insights for policymakers, public health experts, and citizens, aiding in the prevention of future public health crises.