The Interactive Effects of Scientific Knowledge and Gender on COVID-19 Social Distancing Compliance

Objective In this research note, we examine the role scientific knowledge and gender plays in citizen responses to governmental social distancing recommendations. Methods Using two waves of the American Trends Panel Survey and a measure of latent scientific knowledge, we test whether scientific knowledge is associated with comfort in participating in social activities during the COVID-19 pandemic within both the full U.S. population and the two major political parties. Results In both the general population and within the Democratic Party, we find that women are generally more likely to use their scientific knowledge to inform their level of comfort with social activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion These findings shed light on how knowledge and gender intersect to drive compliance with government recommendations and policies during a public health crisis in a deeply partisan America.