Optimism Bias and Perceptions of Behavioral Factors for Preventing Severe COVID-19 Complications

Abstract

We examine the presence of optimism bias in individuals’ perceptions of factors associated with preventing severe complications from COVID-19. Consistent with optimism bias, we find for several factors, that engaging in a behavior is associated with viewing it as more influential for preventing illness severity. Specifically, we find that individuals who exercise more, eat healthier, and take dietary supplements rate these behaviors as more important for preventing severe complications from COVID-19.