Concerned for vaccine-hesitant loved ones? Here's what you need to know before talking to them
As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve globally, vaccination rate has become a key factor in determining
how much a country opens up its economy. Yet not all around the world are convinced to take the shots. Globally,
67% of the population is still not fully vaccinated. Although this number falls below 40% in higher-income countries, it is frustrating for those who can't wait for life to return to normalcy or who are worried about the health of their loved ones.
If you belong to the 33% and are desperate to persuade those you care about to take the vaccines that they have access to, here are a few important reminders by the
MIT Technology Review to help you navigate your conversations better:
(1) Know that not all unvaccinated people are anti-vaxxers – Let’s face it, the vaccines came out unprecedentedly quickly, and suddenly we were all inundated with new languages and scientific terms – ‘mRNA vaccines’, ‘breakthrough cases’ and many more. Not everyone is able to process this information instantly to make an informed decision for themselves, especially the elderly and those who have pre-existing health issues. The reasons for being hesitant about taking the vaccines are personal. We need to respect those reasons.
(2) Identify the obstacle – Is the person you are speaking to afraid of needles, or are they concerned that should the side effects kick in, they won’t be able to take time off work? Offering to help eliminate the obstacles or ease their concerns might result in a more productive conversation.
(3)
Watch your language – Instead of using language that implicitly shames the person (“If you don’t take the vaccine, you are a bad person”), experts recommend that
“ownership” language that suggests vaccination is in the individual’s own hands works better. Examples of ownership language include “Claim your dose” or “The vaccine has been made available to you”.
(4) Know your facts – Addressing a person’s concerns with clear, accurate facts without sounding condescending goes a long way. Educate yourself.
Increasing vaccine uptake is urgent and crucial, but the process of encouraging vaccination does not have to be filled with animosity. Kindness and understanding will help to get us far.
