The association between BIS/BAS and fear of COVID-19 infection among women

BACKGROUND: The main goal of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate, in women, the association between the behavioural inhibition system/behavioural activation system (BIS/BAS) and fear of COVID-19-related self-infection and infection of loved ones (family members, friends, relatives). Several studies have indicated that the psychological consequences of COVID-19 are serious especially among women. On the other hand, little is known about the role of the BIS and BAS in shaping responses and behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic. The article deals with this issue. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE: The sample consisted of 415 women between the ages of 18 and 67. A numerical rating scale comprising 11 degrees of fear was used to assess participants’ COVID-19-related fear, and the BIS and BAS were evaluated using Carver and White’s BIS/BAS scales. RESULTS: A small positive correlation was observed between the BIS and participants’ COVID-19-related fear of loved ones’ infection. The BIS explained two percent of the COVID-19-related fear of loved ones’ infection dimension. CONCLUSIONS: The BIS weakly, but significantly correlated with women's fear of their loved ones being infected by COVID-19. This study highlights the possible role of the BIS mechanism in women's response to COVID-19-related fear, but only when the threat affects loved ones. Comparative studies between men and women are necessary.