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01-06-2012 | Original Article

Psychological Predictors of Anxiety in Response to the H1N1 (Swine Flu) Pandemic

Auteurs: Michael G. Wheaton, Jonathan S. Abramowitz, Noah C. Berman, Laura E. Fabricant, Bunmi O. Olatunji

Gepubliceerd in: Cognitive Therapy and Research | Uitgave 3/2012

Abstract

Pandemic illnesses, such as the H1N1 influenza (swine flu) are often highly publicized in the mass media and can be associated with high levels of anxiety and compensatory behavior (e.g., using hand sanitizers). The present research sought to investigate the psychological processes associated with swine-flu related anxiety during the H1N1 influenza pandemic of 2009–2010. Participants were 315 college students who completed survey measures between September 25th 2009 and February 16th 2010, which encompassed the peak of flu season and a time of intense media attention to this particular outbreak. Data revealed that anxiety in response to the swine flu was common in the sample. Regression analysis indicated that health anxiety, contamination fears and disgust sensitivity were significant predictors of swine flu-related anxiety. Implications for how concerns over pandemic illnesses such as the swine flu can be conceptualized and clinically managed are discussed.

vorige artikel Eating Attitudes, Coping Styles, and Peer Victimization Among Adolescents with Seasonal and Nonseasonal Depression Symptoms

volgende artikel Negative Cognitive Style and Past History of Major Depressive Episodes in University Students

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Titel: Psychological Predictors of Anxiety in Response to the H1N1 (Swine Flu) Pandemic
Auteurs: Michael G. Wheaton
Jonathan S. Abramowitz
Noah C. Berman
Laura E. Fabricant
Bunmi O. Olatunji
Publicatiedatum: 01-06-2012
Uitgeverij: Springer US
Gepubliceerd in: Cognitive Therapy and Research / Uitgave 3/2012
Print ISSN: 0147-5916
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-2819
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10608-011-9353-3

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