Past research on vaccine hesitancy has often focused on socio-demographic predictors (Moscardino et al., 2022). However, findings from the Motivation Barometer highlight other important factors, such as trust in authorities, belief in conspiracy theories (Van Oost et al., 2022), and perceptions of divine immanence and Nature's sacred status (Van Oost et al., submitted), which influence vaccination hesitancy through risk perception and motivation (Schmitz et al., 2022). A person-centered approach that explores profiles of individuals based on diverse predictors, and how these profiles affect well-being and vaccination attitudes, remains largely unexplored (Matta et al., 2023). WP1 aims to fill this gap by identifying these profiles and examining their impact on both vaccination hesitancy and well-being.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted mental health in diverse ways. While some individuals still struggle with long-lasting mental health issues, others have found opportunities for personal growth. WP2 investigates the factors that explain these varied outcomes, focusing particularly on young people. Key to understanding this difference is how well basic psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—were met during the crisis. When these needs were satisfied, they acted as buffers for mental health, while their frustration increased the risk of depression and anxiety.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, public authorities promoted various health behaviors to control the virus. While habits like hand hygiene had little effect on mental health, new behaviors such as mask-wearing and social distancing posed greater challenges. These avoidant behaviors, often intrusive and emotionally taxing, required individuals to override natural social inclinations. WP3 investigates how adherence to these measures has impacted mental health and well-being, aiming to provide insights into the lasting effects of pandemic-era behaviors on public health.

The shift from primary to secondary education marks a critical period for adolescents as they develop autonomy and shape their identities (de Singly, 2006). However, the pandemic disrupted this transition, profoundly affecting academic, social, and emotional development (Settersen et al., 2020). School closures, remote learning, and limited social interactions hindered teens from fully engaging with their new environments, leading to weakened social ties and a sense of lost youth. Yet, new practices emerged, with teenagers adapting through online interactions and reimagining domestic spaces (Gervais et al., 2022).

WP4 seeks to explore the lasting impact of these experiences on adolescents' wellbeing and future outlooks, including their trust in authorities and vaccination intentions. By amplifying their voices, WP4 aims to provide insights into the long-term effects of this unique life phase.

Trust is a crucial element that shapes relationships, especially in times of crisis like a pandemic. It involves one party placing themselves in a vulnerable position, relying on the competence and integrity of the other. During the pandemic, trust in public authorities, health care workers, and experts became essential for effective decision-making and public cooperation.

WP5 explores how the communication styles of authorities during the pandemic influenced public trust. It examines whether the way politicians, experts, and healthcare workers communicated key decisions shaped people’s trust and how these attitudes continue to affect public perceptions today.

In the summer of 2021, Europe introduced the COVID-19 certificate, or green pass, as a key to re-engaging with public life. Its implementation varied across countries, sparking debates on its role and impact. In Belgium, the Covid-Safe Ticket (CST) led to significant public discussion, even causing polarization. WP6 explores the psychological effects of the CST, examining how it influences vaccination intentions, mental health, and public trust. By analyzing whether it was perceived as a protective tool or a coercive measure, this project sheds light on the broader social and psychological consequences of the CST.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, countries implemented measures with varying degrees of stringency, sparking ongoing debates about their necessity (Thompson et al., 2022). While strict policies were at times crucial, they often clashed with public desire for more lenient approaches as mental health concerns grew. Policymakers faced the challenge of enforcing timely, stringent actions while maintaining public motivation and mental well-being. WP7 aims to explore whether the strictness of policies alone influences citizens' behavior and mental health, or if the broader context, such as the epidemiological situation, plays a crucial role in shaping these outcomes.

WP 8: Driving Societal Impact through Co-Creation
The findings from our work packages will reach far beyond academic circles. Through a strategic dissemination plan, we aim to engage stakeholders and the public by offering user-friendly, visual, and audio content. Co-creation activities with key players will ensure these insights have real-world applications, driving significant societal impact.

WP 9: Efficient Coordination for Project Success
Led by PI Olivier Luminet, WP 9 ensures smooth coordination across the consortium. This involves monitoring research progress, managing partnerships, overseeing finances, promoting gender equality, and ensuring compliance with ethical standards. Our focus is on strong collaboration and transparent communication to achieve project milestones effectively.