Determinants for Communicating Willingness to Donate Organs

Abstract: Although almost eight out of ten Swedes are in favor of organ donation, only about 1,5 million have officially registered as organ donors, causing a discrepancy between the supply and demand of cadaveric organs. The purpose of this study is to empirically examine factors that may affect people's likelihood to declare their willingness to donate their organs after death. Based on results from an online survey among students at the Stockholm School of Economics and at the Stockholm School of Social Work, we have - using a linear regression model - tested eight hypotheses on what affects communication of donor will. Our regression analysis gives overall mixed support for the variables tested. Three variables were proved significant - social responsibility, bodily integrity and subject sensitivity. We conclude that these aspects should be addressed in future campaigns aimed at increasing the amount of organ donors.