COVID-19 Prevention via the Science of Habit Formation

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to claim lives worldwide. We propose that the science of habit formation offers strategies to increase adherence to COVID-19 prevention behaviors and has the potential to be lifesaving, particularly for high-risk groups. Eight elements of habit formation are highlighted here: addressing incorrect beliefs, setting goals, devising an action plan, establishing contextual cues, adding reinforcement, engaging in repetition, aiming for automaticity, and recognizing that change is difficult. In addition, we offer a set of strategies for forming new habits and eliminating existing habits to contain the spread of COVID-19. These strategies are derived from habit-formation principles and behavior-change techniques and can inform future research on treatment development. With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging, there is currently an urgent need to jump-start the state of knowledge on habit-formation processes and interventions.