Links between rational and irrational beliefs, trait anxiety and fear of COVID 19

INTRODUCTION: Our beliefs and knowledge influence the way we act, react, or adapt to an aversive situation such as the current COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study is to explore factors that may influence perceived fear of COVID-19. METHODOLOGY: Three hundred and forty-two people from the general population participated in this study. The participants completed an online anamnestic questionnaire that included questions regarding feelings of vulnerability to illness, fear of COVID-19, rational and irrational beliefs about COVID-19, and trait anxiety. RESULTS: A stepwise regression analysis showed that trait anxiety, irrational and rational beliefs, and having comorbidities linked to severe forms of the disease were associated with perceived vulnerability concerning health and fear of COVID-19. DISCUSSION: This study seems to underline the importance of pre-existing vulnerabilities that were exacerbated during the pandemic.