Prof. Dr. Kua Wongboonsin, Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn Universtiy, Asst. Prof. Dr. Pavitra Jindahra, Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn Universitiy, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Surat Teerakapibal, Thammasat Business School, Thammasat University have recently published a research article entitled “The Influence of Neighbor Effect and Urbanization towards Organ Donation in Thailand” in the forthcoming issue of  Progress in Transplantation (Impact Factor: 0.971). This work was supported by the Thailand Research Fund [Grant number RTA5780011].  

 

 Abstract

Introduction – Towards population wellness, an extreme scarcity of organ supply is proven to be an enormous hindrance.  Preferences towards organ donation are vital to raise the organ donation rate.  Notably, the area people living in can address the social influence on individual preference towards organ donation.  

Research Questions – The paper studies the impact of the neighbor effect on organ donation decisions, addressing the social influence of urbanization on preferences.  How neighborhood specific variables, population density, and socioeconomic status drive the neighbor effect is investigated.  The pursuit of organ donor traits is to be answered.

Design – The study uses organ donation interview survey data and neighborhood specific data from Thailand to estimate a series of logistic regression models. 

Results – Individuals residing in urban areas exhibit a greater likelihood to sign the donor card than those in rural areas. The neighborhood socioeconomic status is the key driver.  An individual is more willing to be an organ donor if living in neighbors with higher socioeconomic statuses.  Results also reveal positive influences of males and education on the organ donation rate.

Discussions – The paper documents the “neighbor effect” on the organ donation decision via living area type, offering an alternative exposition in raising the organ donation rate.  In shifting the society norm towards organ donation consent, policy-makers should acknowledge the benefit of urbanization on organ donation decision derived from resourceful urban areas. Moreover, raising education levels does not only improve citizens’ well-being but also their tendency to exhibit an altruistic act towards others.

(Keywords: consumer wellness, organ donation, neighbor effect, decision making, choice, urbanization)