C19 Masks,Your silent brain killer.
Studies conducted to illustrate the extremely dangerous implications of masks and how they prime/injure you for cognitive dissonance and behavioral/interpersonal injuries
Mask data
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted interpersonal communication due to the necessity of protective measures like social distancing and face masks. Face-to-face communication has been particularly affected by the widespread use of masks, which muffle sounds and obscure facial expressions crucial for understanding emotions and messages. Facial expressions, especially those involving the middle and lower face, play a vital role in conveying emotions and intentions during interactions. The pandemic-induced use of face masks hinders emotional recognition, affecting various social contexts, including physician-patient relationships and communication with people with special needs and hearing disabilities. Despite the challenges posed by face masks, they are essential for mitigating the spread of the virus. Coping strategies are necessary to enhance communication in the face of these challenges.
Pre COVID 64% average for 7 emotions and women normally scored a bit higher in anger and contempt.
Post COVID 7 emotions scored 27.8%.
The human face contains approximately 43 muscles that are responsible for various facial expressions and movements
Covid masks eliminated 15 out of the 26 combinations of the 7 basic emotions involving the mouths nose and cheek muscles. Leaving only visible expressions with eyes and brows but leaving more than 65% of the facial expressions out of theĀ emotional development and recognition of adults and children
Nonverbal communication, including facial gestures and expressions, accounts for 75% of our overall communication. With face masks becoming a norm due to COVID-19, people have adapted by relying more on eye contact to understand emotions. However, prolonged eye contact can sometimes create discomfort. Then people avoid eye contact all together creating more issues.
To enhance communication while wearing face masks, it's crucial to raise awareness about their importance while addressing communication challenges openly. Focusing on the upper face, particularly eyebrows, eyes, and upper cheeks, can convey emotions effectively. Non-verbal communication, such as hand gestures, plays a vital role and should be emphasized. In face-to-face interactions, direct eye contact ensures better attention. Speaking louder and slower in quieter settings helps overcome the muffling effect of masks. Telecommunication tools like Skype and Zoom facilitate interactions, and manufacturing transparent face masks or shields allows for facial expressions to be visible, aiding communication for people with special needs.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks have been widely adopted as a crucial measure to control disease spread. However, a study by researchers from McGill University revealed that masks significantly hinder the recognition of facial expressions, key for understanding emotions and intentions. The study involved over 120 individuals and found that masks reduced the ability to recognize emotions by about 24%. Disgust and anger were most affected, with recognition accuracy dropping by 46% and 30%, respectively. Interestingly, people higher in agreeableness showed slightly better emotion recognition with masks, while those higher in extroversion had slightly worse recognition. This research emphasizes the importance of understanding the social impact of mask-wearing, especially in medical and educational settings where accurate interpretation of emotions is crucial. The study suggests that transparent face masks might help mitigate some of the challenges posed by facial occlusion.
Behavior and psychological changes due to masks. study explores toxicity in online discussions related to face mask use on social media, defining toxicity as rude, disrespectful, or unreasonable comments likely to drive participants away. Researchers have applied toxicity concepts to anti-social behavior on platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and YouTube. Toxicity is often characterized by dimensions such as anger, hostility, physical aggression, and verbal aggression, with verbal aggressiveness targeting others' self-concepts.
Verbal aggression, a personality trait attacking others' self-concepts, can harm public health, polarize societies, and lead to social distancing. This aggression model aligns with Peter Sandman's Riskā=āHazardā+āOutrage framework, emphasizing outrage's impact on risk perception. Sandman suggests that managing outrage, especially on social media, is crucial for effective risk communication. Pluralistic ignorance explains the tendency to overestimate or underestimate societal support for specific issues, leading some to express deviant opinions forcefully, often through heightened toxicity online. Individual traits like narcissism, combined with social rejection, predict aggressive online behavior.
References:
Jigsaw LLC (2020a).
Almerekhi et al. (2019); Gruzd et al. (2020); Mall et al. (2020); Guberman et al. (2016); Salminen et al. (2020).
Infante and Wigley (1986); Infante et al. (1990); Hamilton (2012); Hamilton et al. (2008).
Sandman (1993, 2020, 2015); Malecki et al. (2021); Fan (2020); Ledford and Anderson (2020).
Allport (1924); Prentice and Miller (1996); Fields and Schuman (1976); Perkins et al. (2005); Marks and Miller (1987); Ross et al. (1977); Miller and Morrison (2009); Twenge and Campbell (2003); Okada (2010).
study focuses on the infodemic related to COVID-19, where an excess of information, both accurate and inaccurate, circulates during epidemics. Previous research primarily examined misinformation and disinformation. However, there's a gap in understanding toxicity in Twitter discussions regarding face mask usage, a topic intertwined with public health and political sentiments.
The study aims to explore toxicity's impact on online discourse. Toxic language creates a hostile environment, leading to verbal distancing and defensiveness among users. Individuals targeted by toxic language might respond by either agreeing and amplifying toxicity, withdrawing defensively, or speaking against it. Anti-mask proponents, often the minority, are more likely to express their opinions forcefully, potentially using more toxic language. Toxicity, serving as a measure of outrage, needs constant monitoring by public health agencies.
Research Questions (RQs) and Hypotheses (H):
RQ1: Compares toxicity scores between tweets using anti- vs. pro-mask sentiment hashtags.
H1: Anti-mask tweets are expected to have a higher mean toxicity score due to the contrarian nature of the stance and minority vocalization tendency.
RQ2: Compares toxicity scores across tweets based on specific hashtags.
H2: Tweets using #WearADamnMask have higher toxicity scores due to the inclusion of a swear word, attracting strongly opinionated users.
H3: Tweets using #WeDoNotConsent/#WeWillNotComply have higher toxicity scores due to frustration and anger related to government policies.
H4: No significant difference in toxicity scores between #WeDoNotConsent/#WeWillNotComply and #WearADamnMask tweets, expecting similar emotional intensity.
H5: #NoMask tweets have higher toxicity scores than #WearAMask tweets due to vocalization of minority opinions.
References: WHO (2020b); Cuan-Baltazar et al. (2020); HernĆ”ndez-GarcĆa and GimĆ©nez-JĆŗlvez (2020); Sousa-Pinto et al. (2020); Awal et al. (2020); Guerrero-SolĆ© and Philippe (2020); MajĆ³-VĆ”zquez et al. (2020); Schild et al. (2020); Infante and Wigley (1986); Hamilton et al. (2008); Miller and Morrison (2009).
Some of the MAIN Areas of the brain that were injuries and atrophied
Amygdala: The amygdala plays a central role in processing and regulating emotions, particularly fear and the formation of emotional memories.
Hippocampus: While primarily involved in memory formation, the hippocampus is also connected to the processing of emotions, especially in the context of memory and emotional experiences.
Hypothalamus: The hypothalamus regulates the body's physiological response to emotions, such as changes in heart rate, respiration, and the release of stress hormones.
Prefrontal Cortex: The prefrontal cortex, especially the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, is involved in regulating and modulating emotional responses. It plays a role in decision-making, impulse control, and the expression of emotions.
Cingulate Cortex: The cingulate cortex is associated with emotional processing, including the experience of pain and empathy
Conclusion as seen in this study, we assert that toxicity, manifested as verbal aggression and outrage, acts as a significant obstacle for individuals encountering it on social media, posing a threat similar to misinformation and disinformation. We argue that toxic online discussions regarding face mask usage have repercussions offline, jeopardizing effective COVID-19 risk communication. Firstly, such toxicity signals public outrage, undermining risk communication endeavors. Secondly, it alienates individuals, fostering disengagement with the topic. Lastly, it cultivates doubt, eroding trust in public health authorities. If toxic discourse leads people to exit discussions, it could deter large numbers from engaging with the topic. This poses a challenge for public health and risk communicators striving to compete for audience attention amid growing disappointment with discourse quality, potentially leading to increased disengagement. Despite these challenges, our findings underscore the vital need for public health agencies to monitor toxic communication on social media during pandemics. This monitoring can inform data-driven adjustments necessary for enhancing these agenciesā risk communication strategies. Please refer to link below for full data and study
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Q1:
The study examines the impact of face masks on lip-reading ability during the pandemic. Among participants with hearing impairment, 57.5% reported difficulty due to masks. External factors were analyzed, revealing gender as the most significant factor (pā<ā5.78e-11), affecting 88% of females and 39% of males. The reason for this gender difference warrants further exploration.
Q2:
The research assesses the challenges in communication caused by masks. The study revealed that 64.2% faced difficulties. Gender (pā<ā2.01e-9) was significant, affecting 100% of females and 48% of males. Lip-reading level (pā<ā0.00851) and time of hearing loss (pā<ā0.00986) also impacted communication. Those with weak (72%) or good (71%) lip-reading skills were affected, while moderate readers (55%) were less impacted. Those who lost hearing after birth (76%) were more affected than those who lost it before birth (56%). Severity of hearing impairment influenced impact, with 74% of moderate and 64% of severe cases affected.
Q3:
Understanding pandemic-related terminology proved challenging for 73.3% of participants, highlighting the need for clear dissemination of such terms. Gender was a significant factor (pā<ā6.64e-06), emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive communication strategies.
Q4:
Regarding increased use of eye movements due to face masks, 53.3% of participants reported such changes. Gender was the significant factor (pā<ā2.74e-05), with 81% of females increasing their eye movements compared to 41% of males. Females might have compensated for reduced facial expressions by relying more on eye movements, contrasting with males' response.
Q5
Regarding the impact of face masks on participants' happiness index, 62.5% reported negative effects. Gender (pā<ā7.07e-10) and lip-reading level (pā<ā0.0429) were significant factors. 97% of females were significantly affected compared to 47% of males. Lip-reading levels also played a role, with individuals with good and weak lip-reading skills (66% and 53% respectively) being more impacted, while those with moderate skills were less affected (31%).
Some of the MAIN Areas of the brain that were injuries and atrophied
Amygdala: The amygdala plays a central role in processing and regulating emotions, particularly fear and the formation of emotional memories.
Hippocampus: While primarily involved in memory formation, the hippocampus is also connected to the processing of emotions, especially in the context of memory and emotional experiences.
Hypothalamus: The hypothalamus regulates the body's physiological response to emotions, such as changes in heart rate, respiration, and the release of stress hormones.
Prefrontal Cortex: The prefrontal cortex, especially the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, is involved in regulating and modulating emotional responses. It plays a role in decision-making, impulse control, and the expression of emotions.
Cingulate Cortex: The cingulate cortex is associated with emotional processing, including the experience of pain and empathy
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Summary of Findings:
This study delves into the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals with hearing impairment in Jordan during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research illuminates crucial aspects of their experiences through detailed examination of specific questions.
Question 1: Lip-Reading Challenges:
Findings indicate that 57.5% of participants struggled with lip-reading due to face masks. Notably, this difficulty disproportionately affected females, with 88% reporting hindrances compared to 39% of males. (Reference: [Question 1])
Question 2: Communication Impacts:
A significant 64.2% of participants faced communication obstacles due to mask usage. Gender disparities were evident, significantly impacting 100% of females versus 48% of males. Additionally, variations in lip-reading skills, hearing loss onset, and hearing impairment severity played pivotal roles in shaping communication dynamics. (Reference: [Question 2])
Question 3: Terminology Comprehension:
Understanding pandemic-related terminology proved challenging for 73.3% of participants. Gender emerged as a critical factor, emphasizing the need for nuanced communication strategies catering to diverse needs. (Reference: [Question 3])
Question 4: Eye Movement Adaptations:
A notable shift in eye movement patterns was observed in 53.3% of participants due to face masks. Females exhibited a more pronounced adaptation, with 81% altering their eye movements compared to 41% of males, showcasing a gender-specific coping mechanism. (Reference: [Question 4])
Question 5: Impact on Happiness:
The study highlighted the substantial impact of face masks on participants' happiness, affecting 62.5% of individuals. Gender and lip-reading proficiency were influential factors. Female participants, in particular, experienced heightened psychological effects, with 97% reporting adverse impacts compared to 47% of males. Additionally, those with good and weak lip-reading skills felt the impact more profoundly than those with moderate skills, indicating the nuanced interplay of communication abilities and emotional well-being. (Reference: [Question 5])
Toxicity in Online Discourse:
Toxicity in online discourse acts as a potent barrier, hindering effective communication and sowing doubt and disengagement. This toxic communication not only reflects public outrage but also erodes trust in public health authorities. Public health agencies must monitor and address toxic discourse to maintain effective risk communication during pandemics. (Reference: [Toxicity in Online Discourse])
Adapting to Mask Norms:
Understanding the challenges faced in healthy communication while wearing face masks is vital. Developing coping strategies and skills to ease communication with face masks is crucial for navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and future outbreaks. Damage to brain regions like the amygdala, hippocampus, hypothalamus, prefrontal cortex, and cingulate cortex underscores the emotional toll of prolonged mask use that impacts developmental processes of children and adults alike. (Reference: [Adapting to Mask Norms])
In summary, these insights underscore the urgent need for transparent face masks or shields to enhance communication accessibility for individuals with hearing impairment. Tailored support systems, comprehensive communication strategies, and targeted training programs for sign language interpreters are essential components of an inclusive society. Addressing these challenges is vital in fostering an environment where individuals with hearing impairment can thrive despite the hurdles posed by public health measures.
Call to action
In these uncertain times, when trust seems harder to come by, we understand the importance of feeling secure and making informed decisions. Our commitment to your safety is unwavering. We offer specialized training in micro expressions and lie detection, empowering you with the skills to navigate these unsettling circumstances with confidence. In a world where trust in government, politicians, doctors, and even fellow individuals is questioned, understanding the subtle cues of micro expressions and detecting deception can be invaluable. If you seek the knowledge and expertise to safeguard yourself and your interests, we invite you to reach out. Our training and development programs provide you with the tools to stay safe, make informed judgments, and protect what matters most. Your safety is our priority, and we are here to support you.
Links to conducted research
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7755855/#B1
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/20539517211023533
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23311983.2023.2240083