The Odd Psychological Effects Masks have on us

In our new age of illness, masks have made an abrupt incursion into North American society. Many people don the masks but there are still others that refuse to recognize or participate in the initiatives many governments are trying to push. I wanted to discover why people may be so opposed to masks in todays day and age and I discovered a few interesting points.

Confusion

Many people have been told contradictory bits of information regarding the virus and it has led many to put aside the idea of a mask at all. When they are told they are ineffective but effective, but not needed but mandatory, and can stop the spread but will not really stop the spread… people will eventually pick a side on their own opinion.

Social Phobias

Masks are prevalent in movies for the bad guys. It is a way to disconnect the audience from what is going to happen to them (they die). Wearing sunglasses can be used to intimidate people as it covers a key part of our face. How does this explain mask phobia? Well for one face coverings are a way to hide ones tell-tale signs of facial expression which can show a wide range of emotions from anger, sadness, joy, etc… Wearing a mask causes some people who subconsciously rely on those cues to become irritated or anxious as they do not know what the mask wearers intentions are. It also can allow people to become more easily aggressive towards one another as that key element of humanity is removed.

Fear of weakened Freedom

Many see masks as intrusive and unnecessary components of their lives, and because of that they will refuse to wear them. Germs are an out-of-sight out-of-mind sort of concept and because people do not want to be told what to do and wear, they will oppose legislation towards it. So, if you think “why don’t they just wear them” then you need to remember that Its hard enough getting people to wash their hands coming out of a washroom, let alone getting them to done uncomfortable articles.

Confidence and Ego

Being young gives a lot of confidence to people. It is a bit of feeling like you are invincible or that you even if you are sick or injured you are more resilient and can bounce back quicker. Many parties, clubs, and other locations for social gatherings are a place where primarily younger people will gather. Add a dose of alcohol and drugs and you have overconfidence in your surrounding and abilities.

The other side of the coin is ego. Many people view the virus almost the same as an STD. Nobody wants it, and nobody want to admit they have it. The concept of not knowing about it can be somewhat more comforting than knowing you have it. This causes people to try and avoid the topic altogether. It’s somewhat embarrassing to have, and it is not something you want to admit getting since it does have a bit of a socially isolating factor to it.

Politics

Finally, you have politics. Defiance on mask wearing or compliance is a way to show the world almost where you are in your political spectrum. The world is divided and fractured right now and its tribalism. People are more comfortable with their kind and will muster around those who share the same ideas and opinions.