Government policy and COVID-19: Insight and general public attitude in social media

This study aims to understand public tendencies in response to the Covid-19 policy obtained from social media in Indonesia. This research used descriptive quantitative methodology. It involved 580 respondents recruited using quota sampling technique. Research data was collected by using a questionnaire which was shared via social media platforms (Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram). Then, the data was analyzed using frequency distribution, where the respondents’ answers were grouped into separated categories to show patterns. Generally, public saw construction on Covid-19 as a virus which spreads rapidly, and a virus that comes from Wuhan-China. Therefore, public cognitively perceived Covid-19 as a scary virus causing acute diseases. There is also an element of social cognition that has opened a potential space for public to disobey government policies. In relation to affection, public looked down on people who disobey the government policies on Covid-19. Thus, this fact made public function as information channel, persuasion agent, and coercion to others especially to their family members. While public showed knowledge, affection, and behavior supporting government policies on Covid 19, many people disobeyed the policies. The disobedience does not necessarily indicate that people are not aware of the government policies on Covid-19. Yet, the main reason for the disobedience is economic factors. If they stay home, they will lose their income. © 2021 Little Lion Scientific.