Conclusion
The current research aimed to identify the determinants of social distancing behavior to prevent transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in samples of Australian and U.S. residents. The research applied an integrated theoretical model that included multiple social cognition determinants relevant to the behavioral context, and the processes involved, with the potential to be modifiable through intervention. Results provided qualified support for the proposed model, highlighting the importance of social and moral beliefs, and perceptions of control, in predicting intention, and habit and intention in predicting behavior, in both samples, although effects were relatively modest, particularly when past behavior was accounted for. Findings suggest that interventions aimed at promoting social distancing behavior should provide messages highlighting individuals’ obligations to significant others and the moral imperative of protecting the most vulnerable as reasons for social distancing, provide environments (e.g., workplaces and grocery stores) that are barrier free and easy to socially distance and provide consistent opportunities in regular, stable contexts to engage in social distancing to develop habits. Future research should seek to provide longer-range prediction of social distancing behavior by the integrated model constructs and test the stability and reciprocal relations among its constructs using a cross-lagged panel design.