Examining the Effect of Multidimensional Distances on Antibiotic Risk Awareness and Preventive Behaviors

While psychological distance is frequently employed in persuasive health communication, existing studies have primarily concentrated on single-dimensional distances, often overlooking the potential differential effects of coexisting multidimensional distances. The current study examined the effect of multidimensional distances in the context of antibiotic risk. A 2×2×2 online experiment (n = 401) was conducted to explore the interplay of hypothetical, temporal, and spatial distance on antibiotic risk perception and preventive behavior intention. Results indicated that hypothetical distance stands out as the only distance dimension effective when multiple distance dimensions coexist. Furthermore, temporal and spatial distance exhibited a marginally significant interaction effect on the perceived likelihood and severity of antibiotic risk. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.