DESCRIPTION

Successfully addressing COVID-19 pandemic requires individuals, communities, government officials, and public- and private-sector leaders to overcome and address cognitive, cultural, behavioral, and psychological barriers that are impacting or have the potential to negatively impact a coordinated response. Insights from the social and behavioral sciences provide an arsenal of tools that will help orient individual and group actions to better follow and adhere to the guidance of public health experts. There are many opportunities informed by research and evidence, including innovative approaches and new communications media, that will help improve how governments communicate with the public so as to create greater incentives for that behavior change needed to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 and to help allow for a safe and sustained reopening of societies and economies.