Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

August 21, 2020

Social and Behavioral Consequences of Mask Policies during the COVID-19 Pandemic

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• A survey of 6,973 German adults suggests that the implementation of mandatory masking policies in shops and aboard public transit increased compliance despite only moderate acceptance of those policies. Individuals who reported wearing masks were also more likely to report washing their hands regularly, avoiding handshakes, and keeping physical distances.
• Mandatory mask policies were perceived to be fairer than a voluntary mask policy, particularly among participants belonging to a risk group.

Betsch et al. (Aug 20, 2020). Social and Behavioral Consequences of Mask Policies during the COVID-19 Pandemic. PNAS. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2011674117