Case Western Reserve University — MedicalXPress — 29 April 2021
About half the population sits in the “movable middle” when it comes to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy: roughly 20% are sceptical and 30% are open but uncertain. They want to know that vaccines are safe and that the benefits outweigh the risks. Using empathic messaging and transformative dialogue can help increase vaccine acceptance among friends and family in the movable middle. Three topics are among the most common drivers of hesitancy.
Side effects and safety: Lead with empathy and listen to specific concerns. Be upfront about common side effects — local pain, fatigue, headache, muscle or joint pain, chills, fever, swelling, nausea — noting they typically subside after a couple of days. Use language like “safe and effective” rather than “quickly developed.” Encourage the person to direct detailed questions to their health care provider.
Lack of knowledge: Be curious about what the person already knows. Validate accurate knowledge points and gently explore inaccurate ones by saying “Tell me more about this” or “Say more about that.” Ask if they are interested in additional information and provide it using everyday language, not medical jargon.
Government distrust: Acknowledge all feelings of distrust without dismissal. Listen to the person’s narrative without interruption. Ask: “Have you or anyone you know ever been able to trust the motives of the government?” and “What might move you from distrust to increased trust?” Make the conversation collaborative, not combative. The choice ultimately belongs to the individual; empathic listening can be an important voice in helping them move from hesitancy to decision.