Analyzing Avoidance of Healthcare among Emerging Adults

Healthcare avoidance, or the refusal to utilize healthcare services due to real or perceived barriers to treatment, is among the most researched topics in the public reception of science (Benkert et al., 2019). To improve the health of individuals and communities, addressing the concerns of those who are reluctant to utilize healthcare services is a vital prerequisite. One belief among researchers is that emerging adults are more likely to utilize healthcare services (Lau et al., 2014; Mojtabai, 2007). However, analyses of social media platforms have revealed a growing avoidance of healthcare services. Little research has been conducted on avoidant attitudes among emerging adults, with what exists focusing on qualitative and ecological methodologies. The present study will address this gap by conducting a cross-sectional study examining ethnic, sexual, and gender minorities within the emerging adult population to examine differences in healthcare avoidance. Additionally, this study will examine what factors influence any potential healthcare avoidance that exists.

Study participants, between ages 18-29, provided relevant demographic information, including age, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, income, social media use, and frequency of healthcare utilization. Participants completed a series of scales evaluating healthcare avoidance, including the Group-Based Medical Mistrust Scale (GBMMS), Medical Mistrust Index (MMI), and the Revised Health Care Distrust Scale (HCDS). Participants completed a survey examining their history with medical professionals and how strongly participants relate to social media content that reflects healthcare avoidance. Data analysis for this study is currently underway.