Predictors of physical distance in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic | Fact-sheets collection from the Portuguese COVID-19 pandemic Task Force on Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

The promotion of physical distancing is a highly effective way of preventing the interpersonal transmission of pathogenic agents, including SARS-CoV-2. However, the protection of physical health through physical distance should not promote social distancing, which is a relevant disrupter of human subjective and psychological well-being. Interpersonal bonds are essential for the promotion and protection of mental health and quality of life. It is, therefore, necessary to identify adequate criteria for the establishment and promotion of adequate, protective, and health-promoting physical distancing.