Description
In March of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything. This qualitative phenomenological study of undergraduate communication students in a 4-year public university explored how as primary stakeholders for universities, students responded to the pandemic. Using Protective Action Decision Model (PADM), the researchers explored students’ perceptions of the risk of contracting COVID-19 and the protective actions recommended, and how perceptions influenced protective action decision making and behavioral responses. This study fills a gap in the crisis communication literature by focusing on stakeholder perspectives rather than the typical organizational responses to crises; it affirmed the sequential nature of PADM and suggests it should be expanded to include the sense of loss stakeholders experience during a health crisis. It also presents a blueprint for communicating with stakeholders during a health crisis.
DOI
10.30658/icrcc.2021.09
Recommended Citation
Bergson, L., Shaw, T., & Van Leuven, N. (2021). Stakeholders’ responses to the COVID-19 pandemic: A blueprint for health crisis communication. Proceedings of the International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference, Volume 4 (pp. 37-40). Orlando Fl: Nicholson School of Communication and Media. https://doi.org/10.30658/icrcc.2021.09
Included in
Stakeholders’ Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Blueprint for Health Crisis Communication
In March of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything. This qualitative phenomenological study of undergraduate communication students in a 4-year public university explored how as primary stakeholders for universities, students responded to the pandemic. Using Protective Action Decision Model (PADM), the researchers explored students’ perceptions of the risk of contracting COVID-19 and the protective actions recommended, and how perceptions influenced protective action decision making and behavioral responses. This study fills a gap in the crisis communication literature by focusing on stakeholder perspectives rather than the typical organizational responses to crises; it affirmed the sequential nature of PADM and suggests it should be expanded to include the sense of loss stakeholders experience during a health crisis. It also presents a blueprint for communicating with stakeholders during a health crisis.
Accessibility Statement
This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.
