A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Measuring outcomes of training in Empathetic Refutational Interviewing (ERI) for vaccine communication: Development and validation of the ERI Skills Inventory (ERISI)




AuthorsKarlsson, Linda C.; Holford, Dawn; Anderson, Emma; Verger, Pierre; Gagneur, Arnaud; Gould, Virginia C.; Cheng, Ron; Engmann, Dionne; Soveri, Anna; Lewandowsky, Stephan

Publisher Taylor & Francis

Publication year2026

Journal: Human Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics

Article number2607884

Volume22

Issue1

ISSN2164-5515

eISSN2164-554X

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1080/21645515.2025.2607884

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingOpen Access

Publication channel's open availability Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.1080/21645515.2025.2607884

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/508265504

Self-archived copy's licenceCC BY NC

Self-archived copy's versionPublisher`s PDF


Abstract

Considering the complex nature of vaccine hesitancy and the vast amount of misinformation surrounding vaccination, training healthcare professionals (HCPs) in vaccine communication is important to ensure high vaccine uptake. Recently, a new vaccine communication approach, known as the Empathetic Refutational Interview (ERI), was developed to help HCPs in conversations with patients who have vaccine concerns. In the present study, we developed and validated the ERI Skills Inventory (ERISI) for assessing learning outcomes of training in ERI. The ERISI measures are (1) ERI-related knowledge, (2) ERI-related skills, and (3) confidence in using the ERI. A sample of 103 HCPs who took part in ERI training responded to the ERISI, as well as questions about their self-efficacy in vaccine consultations and preparedness to refute arguments against vaccination, before and after the training. At two follow-ups, they also reported their understanding and use of the ERI. Results showed that the ERISI is sensitive to positive changes in ERI knowledge and confidence as a result of training. Participants also showed increased use post-training of ERI skills to demonstrate empathy toward patients. However, no change was observed for ERI skills that refute misconceptions and inform patients using factual information, which participants tended to already use at pretest. ERI knowledge correlated positively with ERI skills at posttest. ERI confidence demonstrated both concurrent and predictive validity. The ERISI questionnaire is a valuable tool for assessing ERI training outcomes that can guide training development to ensure learning and future skill application.


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Funding information in the publication
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement No [964728] (JITSUVAX). This work was supported by funding from the Turku Institute for Advanced Studies.


Last updated on 28/01/2026 10:04:35 AM