Mapping the Links Between Personal Values and Covid-Related Attitudes, Compliance, and Fears

Abstract

Building on a large representative survey conducted in Mannheim in 2020 (in between the first and the second Covid-19 waves), this article shows how Covid-related attitudes, compliance, and fears are tied to personal values. The data exhibit a network of interrelationships. The personal values mirror the typical value structure, with conservation vs. openness to change and self-enhancement vs. self-transcendence as opposing value orientations. Acceptance of norms, social capital, compliance, and belief in the effectiveness of public health measures in combating the spread of Covid-19 are relatively strong for persons who are more conservation-oriented, strongly value religion, and strive for peace of mind. These relations are very similar for persons of different ages, gender, and migrant background. Young and well-educated persons who do not believe that current Covid measures are effective offer the most promising potential for measures that improve compliance.