A recent study conducted by the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) has found that individuals with higher incomes have been more likely to adapt their behavior during the Covid-19 pandemic than those with lower incomes. The study, which was published in the Journal of Population Economics, surveyed 1,000 individuals from four US states (Texas, Florida, California, and New York) as well as individuals from China, the UK, Italy, Japan, and South Korea. Participants were asked about their living and working conditions, household income, and their opinions on Covid-19 measures such as social distancing and hygiene practices.
The study found that individuals in the highest quintile of income were 13% more likely to change their behavior than the average person. They were also 30% more likely to wear masks and wash their hands regularly, and 32% more likely to practice social distancing. However, the study also found that attitudes towards measures such as social distancing were similar across all income levels, with 97% of participants agreeing that such measures were necessary.
The researchers attributed the difference in behavior to the living and working conditions of individuals with lower incomes. Those with lower incomes were less likely to have the option to work from home, which has been shown to increase adherence to social distancing measures. Additionally, individuals with their own gardens or balconies were 20% more likely to practice social distancing, highlighting the importance of access to outdoor space during the pandemic.
The study also found that individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which increase the risk of severe illness from Covid-19, were less likely to practice social distancing. This highlights the need for targeted messaging and support for vulnerable populations during the pandemic. Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of considering socioeconomic factors when designing public health interventions during the Covid-19 pandemic.
