Faith vs. Fear: A Sociological Analysis of the Relationship Between Religiosity and Belief in Mask Efficacy During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Despite the scientific consensus on the effectiveness of masks in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, there has been widespread non-adherence to mask-wearing recommendations. This discrepancy has raised questions about the potential factors influencing individuals' beliefs about masks and their efficacy. Research has suggested that religiosity may play a role in shaping these beliefs. However, the specific mechanisms through which religiosity influences attitudes toward mask efficacy are not well understood. By employment of logistic regression analysis, this thesis finds that a lack of belief in science and trust in scientific institutions were significant mediating predictors of a lower belief in mask efficacy among religious individuals. Feelings of persecution, lack of science literacy, and lower perceived threat emerged as important factors contributing to these results. These findings have important implications for public health messaging and efforts to promote adherence to recommended COVID-19 prevention measures.