UNDERSTANDING VACCINE HESITANCY: AN UPDATED ASSESSMENT OF ATTITUDES REGARDING CHILDHOOD IMMUNIZATIONS

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this project is to provide a literature review and updated assessment of attitudes regarding childhood immunizations during a period of disease outbreaks across the United States. The review includes a background of vaccinations and the vaccine hesitancy movement, and identifies the greater health implications of those who choose to modify, delay, or refuse vaccinations for their children. The research study presents an analysis of childhood vaccination attitudes, beliefs, and practices in relation to sociodemographic characteristics, with specific emphasis on the effect of advanced educational attainment. Methods: The review includes a comprehensive collaboration of published articles and research studies related to vaccinations. The present research study involves an original survey distributed to adults 25-55 years old who either reside in one of nine targeted states or are Princeton University alumni. Results: In total, 1,784 responses were recorded. Within the Princeton alumni population, more sharply divergent responses regarding vaccination attitudes were related to higher educational status (>Bachelor degree). A variety of additional associations were observed between vaccination perceptions and sociodemographic characteristics within the sample populations. No demographic factor was significant in determining ultimate vaccination decisions for children. Conclusions: The majority of respondents overwhelmingly share the belief that vaccines are a good way to protect their children from diseases. The importance of vaccination attitudes during the decision-making process could be further addressed in order to assess advanced education as an influential factor. Overall, the determinants of vaccine hesitancy are complex and the associations observed between factors and vaccination attitudes across various studies do not allow for complete classification of the individual importance of socio-demographic factors.