Leveraging digital technology to improve self-efficacy in response to public health crises

Abstract

During public health crises, people's self-efficacy determines their mental and physical health. However, little is known about the influence of digital technology on self-efficacy in response to public health crises. To better understand these effects, we conducted a mixed methods study based on Chinese digital technology users; we interviewed 17 and surveyed 607 users. The results indicated that the digital affordances of information sharing, knowledge sharing, and socializing can increase people's perceived social support, which enhances their self-efficacy in terms of their health and general life. Additionally, risk perception moderates the influence of social support on self-efficacy.