Examining People Behavioral Responses to COVID-19: The Role of Socioeconomics, Risk Perceptions, and Media in Pakistan

Abstract

This study examines people's behavioral responses to COVID-19 in Pakistan. A survey instrument is designed to collect data on demographic characteristics, perception about COVID-19, and motivation to avoid it, the socio-economic impact of COVID-19, and their views about the policy responses. The survey collected responses from 404 individuals of different age groups. The data is analyzed through descriptive statistics and a logistic regression model to study human behavior to deal with the COVID-19. It is revealed that families' dependence on earners is the main obstacle for social distancing and isolation. The results indicate that people with high socio-economic conditions, perceived Severity, and social pressure are more likely to adopt social distancing and go to isolation. It is also revealed that people with lower socio-economic conditions face economic hardship due to shrinking work opportunities. Thus, the study recommends the government manage the diversion of resources to sustain individuals' lives through a targeted approach and use expansionary fiscal and monetary policies as a prudential option.