Application of the protection motivation theory for predicting COVID-19 preventive behaviors in Hormozgan, Iran: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background The high prevalence and mortality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have made it the most important health social challenge around world. However, this can be largely prevented by adherence to hygienic principles protective behaviors. It seems that identifying processes involved in behaviors effective planning implementing suitable interventions encourage community toward Therefore, present study aimed predict preventive COVID-19 according Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). Methods This cross-sectional was conducted over 2 months Hormozgan Province, Iran. population consisted all citizens above age 15 years. An online questionnaire used collect data. link available participants through networks. two sections, including demographic information PMT constructs. All statistical calculations hypothesis testing were performed SPSS Version 21 AMOS 21. significance level considered 0.05 for testing. Results A total 2032 subjects, with mean 34.84 ± 9.8 years ( r = 15–98), participated study. Most 31–40 old, female (60.4%), married (72%), urban residents (87.3%), employed (58.8%). majority them also had a bachelor’s degree or higher Significant positive correlations observed between perceived vulnerability 0.192, P < 0.001), severity 0.092, response efficacy 0.398, self-efficacy 0.497, protection motivation 0.595, 0.001). On other hand, significant negative found maladaptive behavior rewards − 0.243, 0.001) costs 0.121, Conclusion findings showed reward fear negatively predicted positively behaviors; impact strongest. Overall, provided contribute policymaking