Perception and Attitude of Reddit Users Towards Use of Face-Masks in Controlling COVID-19

TL;DR

This study analyzes Reddit users' perceptions and attitudes towards face-mask use during COVID-19, revealing diverse opinions despite social media polarization, through surveys and statistical analysis.

Contribution

It provides empirical insights into public opinion on face-masks during COVID-19 using online surveys and statistical testing, highlighting opinion diversity.

Findings

Opinions on face-masks are polarized but not ubiquitous.

Both pro- and anti-mask opinions exist across the spectrum.

Statistical analysis confirms the presence of diverse attitudes.

Abstract

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the use of face-masks to combat the disease. A fraction of the population has been vocal about their disapproval, especially on social media. Motivated by the need to understand their opinions, an international online survey in English was shared to the community /r/SampleSize in Reddit. The results obtained were summarized; binomial and multinomial confidence intervals were constructed for variables of interest; Pearson's Chi-squared test was used to test whether relationship exists between two variables of interest. A second, smaller survey was conducted to cross-validate the results. The study demonstrates that despite the digital polarization of public opinion, opinions from both sides of the spectrum are not ubiquitous.