Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
3. Explain in what ways behavioral sciences can be used in prevention and management of COVID-19. (250 words)
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The question is amidst the rising importance of practicing covid-19 appropriate behaviour.
Key Demand of the question:
Explain in what ways behavioral sciences can be used in prevention and management of COVID-19.
Directive:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start with the current conditions world is facing owing to the pandemic.
Body:
The answer body must have the following aspects covered:
First discuss the lacunae especially in the behavioural aspects of our populations that are making the situation more and more difficult to be brought back in control.
Lack of physical distancing and proper hand washing are among the reasons for daily new infections. But the biggest reason for the surge is that people are wearing masks inconsistently, incorrectly, or not at all. Data from a global survey of COVID-19 knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) produced by the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs show that from July 2020 to March 2021, India saw a 5% drop in mask wearing.
Highlight the importance of behavioural sciences – With behavioural data and strategic approaches, resources can be more efficiently used in reaching different audience segments with information through the channels they trust.
Conclusion:
Conclude that if we want to finish this year being able to celebrate festivals, hug our loved ones and enjoy a real holiday, we need to invest in a comprehensive, behavioural approach to address COVID-19 behaviour.
