Psychological determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance: A comparison between immigrants and the host population in Japan

Abstract

This study explored the differences in COVID-19 vaccination readiness based on the 7C model and its association with vaccine acceptance among foreign-born immigrants, Japan-born immigrants, and locals in Japan. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in October 2021 (n = 3,690). Our results show that COVID-19 vaccination readiness, acceptance, and their relationship differ according to migratory status and nativity. Immigrant participants reported higher general vaccination readiness and acceptability for vaccination against COVID-19 than the Japanese participants, but had lower vaccination coverage, particularly among those born in Japan. The psychological determinants of Japan-born immigrants were more similar to those of Japanese participants than those of foreign-born immigrants. The effects of confidence, complacency, and constraints on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance were strong among all three groups. However, the role of collective responsibility and conspiracy varied by migratory status. This study highlighted the importance of culturally tailored interventions in vaccine delivery to immigrants.

Keywords: 7C; COVID-19; Immigrants; Japan; Nativity; Vaccine acceptance.