Young Latina college students' perspectives on mask-wearing post lifting of mask mandates.

Abstract

Confusion, miscommunication, and debate regarding the benefits of wearing masks, social distancing, and stay-at-home orders ensued for much of the COVID-19 pandemic. Without a consistent message from the government, doubt regarding masks' effectiveness in preventing the spread of COVID-19 became common and led to an anti-masking effort and resistance to COVID-19 protocols. This qualitative study used thematic analysis to understand experiences of young Latina college students during the pandemic and how these experiences contributed to their decisions to continue following COVID-19 protocols after the lifting of relevant restrictions. Twenty-two Latina college students were interviewed, and interview transcripts were analyzed to identify themes. Four themes emerged: i) disinformation and mistrust, ii) economic impacts, iii) emotional impacts, and iv) maintaining health. Thematic analysis of in-depth interviews allowed for a deeper understanding of health-seeking behaviors of Latina college students. Inconsistent messaging from public health officials during the pandemic contributed to confusion and resistance to the various mandates among participants-the majority of whom, as of this writing (June 2022), have chosen to continue to wear masks and follow other protocols despite public health and university officials lifting mask mandates.