Swedish study finds pandemic rule-breakers fared better mentally than compliers
University students who ignored COVID-19 health guidelines reported fewer mental health problems and stronger academic confidence than those who followed recommendations, suggesting compliance carried hidden psychological costs. The finding challenges assumptions about public health compliance and raises questions about how authorities should balance mandates against individual wellbeing during future crises.
Originaltitel: Non-compliance with COVID-19 Health Recommendations: Five- and Ten-Month Effects on Mental Health and Academic Self-efficacy Among University Students in Sweden
<p>BACKGROUND: Addressing the effects of non-compliance with health-related recommendations in pandemics is needed for informed decision-making. This longitudinal study investigated the effects of non-compliance on mental health and academic self-efficacy among university students in Sweden.</p><p>METHODS: Baseline assessments were conducted in May 2020, with follow-ups after 5 and 10 months. Students (n = 3123) from 19 universities completed online questionnaires covering compliance, mental health, and academic self-efficacy. Effects of non-compliance were estimated using causal inference and multilevel multinomial regression.</p><p>RESULTS: Non-compliant students constituted a minority, but their proportion increased over time. Regarding mental health and academic self-efficacy, few differences were observed between compliant and non-compliant students. When differences were identified, non-compliant students experienced fewer negative effects on mental health and academic self-efficacy than compliant students.</p><p>CONCLUSION: The findings may suggest that non-compliance may have involved a trade-off between increased individual freedom and mitigating negative outcomes. Addressing the research gap on non-compliance effects is crucial for informed decision-making and promoting the common good. This may guide strategies balancing individual autonomy and collective well-being during future pandemics.</p><p>PRE-REGISTRATION: Center for Open Science (OSF), https://accounts.osf.io/login?service=https://osf.io/37dhm/ .</p>