Lesson 7: Stories and Emotions

Regarding emotions, it is important to know about the power of helping others. Behavior science teaches us that when people are motivated to help others, they make sacrifices and behave more kindly. People are also ready to make sacrifices to ensure justice and may also act in certain ways when they expect similar benefits, social recognition, or when it gives them self-confidence.

You can use this knowledge in certain ways and wrap it into interesting stories like this: “Take care of yourself and your loved ones by staying at home if you feel unwell to avoid infecting yourself and others. You may have mild symptoms, but you might infect people who are at higher risk – especially the elderly and people with underlying health conditions, this could be life-threatening for them”.

“Keep an eye on other members of your community and ensure they also adhere to the COVID 19 safety protocols. Support others by setting a good example”.

“If all of us follow simple rules, we will be able to protect ourselves, our families, our neighbours, and our community”.

Communication aimed at changing behavior is always well received when you share some personal stories. This next statement is an example: “Please meet my Grandfather, Mr Nana Asante. He is in group of people who are considered as at risk of COVID-19 complications, so I follow all the COVID prevention rules in order to protect him. I know that it will help prevent him from getting infected”.

“As a daughter, I want the best for my family. As a doctor, I know that it is easier to prevent virus than to treat it. Get vaccinated before it is too late”.

If you come across really hesitant people, please try to reschedule a follow up appointment to check in if they believed in your messages and took action or if there is more convincing work to be done.

A few key points to remember:

1. Motivating people to help others leads to them behaving more kindly.
2. Use the "helping others" tool in interesting stories like "You may have mild symptoms, but you might infect people who are at higher risk like elderly and vulnerable people."
3. Share personal positive stories from your surroundings. This motivates people to copy it.
4. Schedule a second appointment if you are not happy with the desired outcome of your conversation.

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