Motivations and Barriers for the Use of Face Coverings during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Messaging Insights from Focus Groups

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Citation

Shelus, Victoria; Frank, Simone C.; Lazard, Allison J.; Higgins, Isabella C. A.; Pulido, Marlyn; Richter, Ana Paula C.; Vandegrift, Sara M.; Vereen, Rhyan N.; Ribisl, Kurt M.; & Hall, Marissa G. (2020). Motivations and Barriers for the Use of Face Coverings during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Messaging Insights from Focus Groups. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(24), e9298. PMCID: PMC7763909

Abstract

Widespread use of face coverings is a key public health strategy to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, few studies have examined why Americans use or do not use face coverings, and little is known about the most effective messaging strategies. This study explored perceptions of face coverings, including motivations and barriers for use, and examined reactions to messaging promoting the use of face coverings. Six virtual focus groups were conducted with 34 North Carolina residents in July 2020. Participants reported high compliance with face covering recommendations but often did not wear them around family, friends, and colleagues. The most prevalent motivation for the use of face coverings was to protect or respect other people, including high-risk populations and individuals. Other motivators were self-protection, responsibility, desire for control, requirements, and expert advice. Barriers included physical and social discomfort, confusion or misinformation, low perceived susceptibility to COVID-19, and perceptions of identity and autonomy. Even among individuals who frequently wear face coverings, there are opportunities to improve compliance. Messaging should highlight how face coverings protect the wearer and others around them, normalize the use of face coverings in social settings, and emphasize requirements. Positive messages that focus on unity, personal experiences and the rationale for face coverings are recommended.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17249298

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year Published

2020

Journal Title

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Author(s)

Shelus, Victoria
Frank, Simone C.
Lazard, Allison J.
Higgins, Isabella C. A.
Pulido, Marlyn
Richter, Ana Paula C.
Vandegrift, Sara M.
Vereen, Rhyan N.
Ribisl, Kurt M.
Hall, Marissa G.

Article Type

Regular

PMCID

PMC7763909

Continent/Country

United States of America

State

North Carolina

ORCiD

Shelus - 0000-0001-7418-6002
Richter - 0000-0001-6987-8741
Hall - 0000-0002-8690-9498