Cognitive Aspects of the Attitude of Young People to Vaccination Against COVID-19: A Case Study of Vladivostok

The study examined the cognitive aspects of young people's attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination in Vladivostok, involving both students and working youth. Using in-depth interviews and semantic analysis, it found that more than half of the respondents had a positive attitude towards vaccination, viewing it as a health protection measure. However, opinions varied on issues like restrictive measures and the safety of the Sputnik-V vaccine. Two distinct groups emerged: one with a passive approach, influenced by external pressures and characterized by cognitive distortions and conspiracy thinking, and another with an active, rational approach, utilizing diverse information sources and valuing personal freedom. While recognizing the necessity of vaccination, respondents were sensitive to coercion and restrictions on choice, highlighting personal freedom as a significant concern.