Why do people in some societies embrace vaccines, while in others they resist them? This chapter explores how cultural values shape vaccine hesitancy across the world. It focuses on three cultural dimensions derived from Hofstede’s framework, those most commonly explored in the context of vaccination and vaccine hesitancy: individualism versus collectivism, power distance, and uncertainty avoidance. These dimensions influence how people perceive autonomy, authority, and risk in health decisions. In individualist cultures, hesitancy often reflects a desire for personal control, calling for communication that emphasizes choice and self-protection. In collectivist settings, community-focused appeals and trusted leaders play a central role. Power distance shapes reactions to expert guidance, while uncertainty avoidance affects how societies respond to new vaccine technologies. The chapter underscores the need for culturally responsive communication that builds trust, reduces uncertainty, and resonates with local norms and values.

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Cultural Contexts of Vaccine Hesitancy

  • Marta Sudoł-Malisz

摘要

Why do people in some societies embrace vaccines, while in others they resist them? This chapter explores how cultural values shape vaccine hesitancy across the world. It focuses on three cultural dimensions derived from Hofstede’s framework, those most commonly explored in the context of vaccination and vaccine hesitancy: individualism versus collectivism, power distance, and uncertainty avoidance. These dimensions influence how people perceive autonomy, authority, and risk in health decisions. In individualist cultures, hesitancy often reflects a desire for personal control, calling for communication that emphasizes choice and self-protection. In collectivist settings, community-focused appeals and trusted leaders play a central role. Power distance shapes reactions to expert guidance, while uncertainty avoidance affects how societies respond to new vaccine technologies. The chapter underscores the need for culturally responsive communication that builds trust, reduces uncertainty, and resonates with local norms and values.