Mapping changes in human mobility for dining activities: a perceived risk theory perspective

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to explain how the impact of COVID-19 on human mobility is affected by the perceived risk of the pandemic. Design/methodology/approach Using a statistical analysis and a geographic visualization technique, we investigate whether and how changes in people’s restaurant visiting patterns during COVID-19 vary with their level of risk perception. Findings The changes in people’s restaurant visiting patterns vary with their risk perception: the tendency to increase the number of visits to restaurants located in non-popular areas is related to the level of perceived risk. Originality/value This research confirms the importance of risk perception when examining the pandemic’s multi-dimensional impacts.