The relations between age, face mask perceptions and face mask wearing.

Area of Science:

• Social Psychology
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Popular media suggested older adults are less inclined to wear face masks.
• Face mask use is crucial for mitigating COVID-19 transmission.
• Understanding age-related adherence to public health measures is vital.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between age and face mask wearing.
• To examine the mediating role of face mask perceptions in this relationship.
• To explore factors influencing mask-wearing behaviors across different age groups.

Main Methods:

• Four empirical studies were conducted.
• The Face Masks Perceptions Scale (FMPS) assessed perceptions.
• Statistical analysis examined correlations between age, mask perceptions, and mask-wearing.

Main Results:

• A small negative correlation (r = -.07) indicated older individuals were slightly less likely to wear masks.
• Age was not significantly related to any measured face mask perceptions.
• Face mask perceptions did not consistently mediate the age-mask wearing relationship.

Conclusions:

• The link between age and mask-wearing is not explained by perceptions of face masks.
• Alternative psychological or social mechanisms may underlie age differences in mask adherence.
• Further research should explore dual-system theories and other factors influencing mask-wearing behaviors.