Reasons for non-mask wearing during Covid-19 among non-mask wearers in Ireland

Sheridan, Ruairi (2022) Reasons for non-mask wearing during Covid-19 among non-mask wearers in Ireland. Undergraduate thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

Despite the proven effectiveness of the health protective measure of wearing face masks during Covid-19, a minority of individuals within Ireland still refuse to do. This study answers the call for further research and understanding of the reasons and beliefs these individuals have about mask wearing, in order to better promote mask wearing in the future. A series of semi-structured interviews among 3 male and 2 female participants who refused to wear masks was conducted to discover and further explore the reasons that led to non-mask wearing. A thematic analysis of participants interviews generated four main themes: (i) Personal choice & perceived risk, (ii) Distrust & skepticism, (iii) A long road behind and ahead, (iv) The meaning of masks. Results of the study showed that belief in Covid-19 misinformation had the greatest effect on the choice to not wear a mask. The implications of belief in Covid-19 misinformation on mask wearing and potential action required to reduce spread of misinformation are discussed. Pandemic Fatigue as reason for those who had previously worn masks and not those who had never worn masks was discovered and further discussed.

Item Type:	Thesis (Undergraduate)
Subjects:	D History General and Old World > DA Great Britain > Ireland R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine > Personal Health and Hygiene
Divisions:	School of Business > BA (Honours) in Psychology
Depositing User:	Clara Chan
Date Deposited:	21 Jul 2022 10:28
Last Modified:	21 Jul 2022 10:28
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/5680

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