A MIXED METHODS EVALUATION OF VACCINE EDUCATION UPTAKE AMONG EXTENSION PROFESSIONALS USING A PREVENTION SCIENCE FRAMEWORK

Zena Marie Edwards

doi:10.7273/000007884

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Dissertation

A MIXED METHODS EVALUATION OF VACCINE EDUCATION UPTAKE AMONG EXTENSION PROFESSIONALS USING A PREVENTION SCIENCE FRAMEWORK

Zena Marie Edwards

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University

07/2025

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7273/000007884

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Abstract

Cooperative Extension

Mixed Methods

Prevention Science

Social Identity Theory

Vacccine Hesitancy

Organizational behavior

Rural Health

This study used a convergent mixed methods design to explore Extension professionals’ willingness to engage in vaccine education, integrating quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive understanding of adoption behaviors. A latent profile analysis identified three distinct groups based on Science Media Literacy, Trait Psychological Reactance, and Social Identity Theory: Proud Connectors, Neutral Independents, and Disconnected Resisters. These groups differed significantly in their professional identity, satisfaction, and resistance to influence. Qualitative analysis of open-ended responses, guided by Diffusion of Innovation theory, revealed contextual factors--including perceptions of innovation attributes, opinion leadership, and sociopolitical climate--that shaped individuals' willingness and involvement in vaccine education. Integration of the qualitative and quantitative findings provide actionable insights for tailoring communication and support strategies to enhance adoption of vaccine education within Extension.

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Title: A MIXED METHODS EVALUATION OF VACCINE EDUCATION UPTAKE AMONG EXTENSION PROFESSIONALS USING A PREVENTION SCIENCE FRAMEWORK
Creators: Zena Marie Edwards
Contributors: Cory Bolkan (Chair)
Brian French (Committee Member)
Nicole O'Donnell (Committee Member)
Louise Parker (Committee Member)
Thomas Power (Committee Member)
Awarding Institution: Washington State University
Academic Unit: Department of Human Development
Theses and Dissertations: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
Number of pages: 196
Identifiers: 99901299495701842
Language: English
Resource Type: Dissertation