Skip main navigation

New lower prices! Get up to 50% off 1000s of courses. 

Explore courses

Reactance

Reactance
Low Section of Man Breaking out of Handcuffs Against Sky
Reactance describes a person’s tendency to defend their freedom and autonomy when they feel that others are trying to impose their will on them, for example through health advice or vaccination.

People living in prison are likely to be more sensitive around their freedom and anything which might be infringing on it due to the fact that their liberty has already been restricted by the state. Arguments relating to reactance may therefore be common in this group.

Speech bubble with the following text: ‘‘‘I reject vaccines because it is my choice and I am free to do so. Vaccination violates my right to decide what goes into my body.’’’

It is important to acknowledge people’s right to decide on their medical care. People should not be coerced or forced into medical decisions, including vaccination.

Speech bubble with the following text: ‘‘It is your right to make your own decision on your medical care. Choosing to get vaccinated is empowering, as it helps protect you from serious illness. Your choice to get vaccinated also helps you to protect your loved ones and other people close to you from getting sick. By getting vaccinated, you are exercising your human right to health.’’

This article is from the free online

Prison Health: Vaccinations for People Working and Living in Prisons (Non-Vaccine Trained Staff)

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now