Ethnicity and worldviews associated with attributing responsibility for COVID-19 to people of Asian descent: Evidence from Canada

Across the world, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has intensified stigmatization and discrimination against various ethnic groups, especially people of Asian descent. The present study explored the factors associated with attributing responsibility for COVID-19 to Asians among European Canadians and Asian residents of Canada. Specifically, we explored the role of religiosity, fate control, taking precautionary measures, reported life changes due to COVID-19, and ethnicity in attributing responsibility for COVID-19 to people of Asian descent. A sample of 277 participants residing in Canada (M_age = 31.16, SD = 5.87) completed an online survey. Results indicated that Asian residents in Canada rather than European Canadians and being male were associated with attributing responsibility for COVID-19 to Asians. A stronger belief in fate control, having made greater life changes, and having taken fewer precautionary measures against COVID-19 were associated with higher levels of attributing COVID-19 responsibility to Asians. Findings offer important insights regarding the negative stereotypes and biases that emerged as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which can be used to promote awareness that ensures communities come together in the face of similar future challenges.