Estudo fenomenológico sobre o impacto do uso de máscara profilática na perceção que temos do eu e do outro

Abstract

Coronavirus changed the world as we knew it, from basic daily tasks to how we relate to eachother. This work assumes the objective of exploring and understanding the experience andimpact of the use of a prophylactic mask on the perception we have of ourselves and theother, as well as describing the effect of its use on intersubjective relationships, in particular,at the level of communication and manifestation. of emotions. With a sample made up of fiveyoung adults with rich experience on the phenomenon, this is a qualitative study that uses aphenomenological approach, through the use of semi-structured interviews. The resultsobtained reveal that the perceived susceptibility and the preventive benefits motivate the use,and the experience is seen as positive and advantageous despite the difficulties. As for theimpact on relationships and the perception of others, the most reported was in terms of facerecognition, communication and recognition/expression of emotions. There was a decrease inperceived proximity, due to less display of affection, at the same time that people who wear amask are seen as more responsible, therefore, more trustworthy. Leading to the conclusionthat the experience of wearing a mask is perceived as positive and advantageous, despite allthe adversities, and it is up to each one to seek the best adaptation strategies in order to promote general well-being and prevent the transmission of the disease to others. The main implication of this study refers to the information acquired that can be used in order to reducethe impact (physical, psychological and social) of the use of a face mask in the future, whether in a new pandemic or health event.

Date of Award	31 Mar 2023
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Armanda Gonçalves (Supervisor)