Abstract

There is a universal shortage of organs available for transplantation, which could be reduced by increasing the posthumous organ donation rates. The present paper presents an overview of the various sets of factors that have been proven to influence people’s decision to consent to the donation of their deceased next of kin’s organs, as well as their intention to become organ donors. We highlight the essential part played by the individual’s attitudinal beliefs about organ donation for his/her intention to donate and briefly present the most relevant theoretical models and influences in this area. Across this synthesis, we also describe the key features of a series of public campaigns promoting organ donation that intended to address some of these psychosocial factors as a way to increase people’s willingness to donate.