Mass Masking without Mandates — The Role of Gender in Mask Use in China

This perspective piece explores the historical and cultural influence of gender norms on mask-wearing behavior in China during epidemics. It contrasts state mandates during outbreaks like the Manchurian plague with public responses in periods of voluntary masking. Across different eras from the 1910s through the Cultural Revolution to Covid-19 gender shaped who wore masks and why. The article reveals that aesthetic concerns, cultural expectations, and media portrayals all impacted female mask use, while men often adopted masks more readily due to perceived responsibility or fashion trends. It argues for nuanced public health messaging that accounts for gender roles to promote effective disease prevention.

This perspective piece explores the historical and cultural influence of gender norms on mask-wearing behavior in China during epidemics. It contrasts state mandates during outbreaks like the Manchurian plague with public responses in periods of voluntary masking. Across different eras from the 1910s through the Cultural Revolution to Covid-19 gender shaped who wore masks and why. The article reveals that aesthetic concerns, cultural expectations, and media portrayals all impacted female mask use, while men often adopted masks more readily due to perceived responsibility or fashion trends. It argues for nuanced public health messaging that accounts for gender roles to promote effective disease prevention.