How do you feel about wearing a mask? U of C wants your opinion

CALGARY – The University of Calgary is launching a survey to find out how Calgarians feel about wearing masks during the pandemic.

Have you been following the city and provincial mandates and wearing a mask? If not, why?

“It’s important for us to understand these behaviours for public safety in terms of reducing spread of the virus, but also because of the angst that it causes Calgarians and business owners, and the pressure that it puts on city officials.”

Milaney says scientists from the U of C and the city have had many conversations about people who willfully defy mask mandates and other pandemic measures in the city.

The survey was created following those recurring discussions.

“We’re really curious about where people get their information, who they listen to, how they make decisions, and, of course, most importantly, what are the driving reasons behind not wearing a mask,” said Milaney.

“We want to understand why they’re so resistant to this idea. We do lots of things on a daily basis that keep our neighbours and our families and our communities safe. So we’re very curious as to why a mask has become such a heated topic.”

Milaney says researchers do want to hear “both sides of the story”, and they’re hoping to hear from people who wear masks and those who’ve chosen not to.

She also says the survey is anonymous–they won’t be collecting or sharing personal information, like names or contact info, to encourage some people who may be hesitant to fill out the poll.

Milaney says people who are polled should be as transparent and honest as possible.

Data from the study will help the city develop more effective communications about the value and importance of mask-wearing.

You can fill out their questionnaire online.

-with files from Cindy White

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