COVID-19 Prevention via the Science of Habit Formation

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to claim lives worldwide. We propose that the science of habit formation offers strategies to increase adherence to COVID-19 prevention behaviors and has potential to be lifesaving, particularly for high risk groups. Eight elements of habit formation are highlighted: addressing incorrect beliefs, setting goals, devising an action plan, establishing contextual cues, adding reinforcement, engaging in repetition, aiming for automaticity and recognizing that change is difficult. In addition, we offer a set of strategies for forming new habits and eliminating existing habits to contain the spread of COVID-19. These strategies are derived from habit formation principles and behavior change techniques and can inform future treatment development research. With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging, there is currently an urgent opportunity to leap knowledge on habit formation processes and interventions forward.