Counterproductive behaviors in coping with the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic in Brazil: investigation using a 10-year follow-up cohort and ecological momentary assessment

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic requires several changes in the behavior of each individual so that there is less impact on the entire society. Thus, it is possible to identify behaviors that can aggravate the spread of the virus, called counterproductive behaviors. It is possible that individual aspects (such as personality traits) and social and environmental factors (socioeconomic level, education, etc.) prior or current to the pandemic, are associated with such behaviors, representing risk factors for greater vulnerability to contamination. However, it is very difficult to systematically assess the impact of these aspects, as longitudinal studies that have evaluated individuals previously and during the pandemic are necessary. The Projeto Conexão cohort (BHRCS) is in a privileged position to investigate risk factors for counterproductive behavior. The study has followed 2,511 children and adolescents since the year 2010. Today, aged between 16 and 25 years, these subjects were evaluated with an extensive protocol on psychic symptoms, temperament traits and socioeconomic characteristics in an attempt to understand the developmental trajectories of mental disorders. This proposal aims to expand the previously used method of intensive collection (Ecological Momentary Assessment) to assess counterproductive behaviors and associated factors when facing the pandemic. In this way, we will be able to assess and predict which individual and environmental factors predict counterproductive behaviors. (AU)