Research shows men reported not wearing masks more frequently than women during COVID-19—a pattern seen in prior outbreaks. Mandating masks in key settings helps close this gap.
Starting July 20, 2020, France required masks in enclosed public spaces, building on the transport mandate in place since deconfinement began. Masks remain optional outdoors, such as on streets, in parks, at beaches, or on hiking trails.
Mandatory indoor masking may counter a persistent trend: men wear masks less often than women. A May 16, 2020, study on PsyArXiv by economist Valerio Capraro and mathematician Hélène Barcelo surveyed 2,500 U.S. adults to uncover this.
Findings indicate men more often reported skipping masks, particularly when not required. Cited reasons included viewing masks as unfun, a sign of weakness, or even shameful—perceptions that seem misguided amid a pandemic.
In a July 19, 2020, BBC interview, the study's authors noted some men believed they were less vulnerable to COVID-19 than women. Yet data shows men faced higher risks from SARS-CoV-2.
This isn't isolated to COVID-19. A 2004 Hong Kong SARS study found similar noncompliance among men. Recent Reuters reporting highlights U.S. men washing hands less frequently than women overall.
Behavioral scientist Christina Garvert explains this aligns with gender differences in risk perception: men tend to be less altruistic and more individualistic. Tailored messaging could help, but mandates—at least indoors—offer the most effective solution.
