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The Dilemma of Mask-Wearing: Association Between Mask-Wearing Adherence, Discrimination, and Anxiety in Asian Americans During the Early Stages of COVID-19
General Information
Title
The Dilemma of Mask-Wearing: Association Between Mask-Wearing Adherence, Discrimination, and Anxiety in Asian Americans During the Early Stages of COVID-19
Author
Ya-Wen Melissa Liang, Soyoung Kwon, Steve Bain, and Carlos M. Guerra
Publication Type
Journal paper
Outlet
National Forum of Multicultural Issues
Year
2023
Abstract
Mask-wearing effectively reduced the spread of COVID-19; however, it paradoxically amplifies the risks of COVID-19-related harassment among Asian Americans. This study explored mask-wearing adherence, COVID-19-related discrimination, and mental health among Asian Americans and analyzed 5, 056 Asian respondents. Our findings indicated that mask-wearing was associated with a) COVID-19-related discrimination and b) an elevated risk of COVID-19-related anxiety. These findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive counseling interventions and targeted mental health policies.