From the beauty care masks popularized by Koreans to surgical masks brought by the Corona Virus from China. Are we really fond of patronizing foreign products? Kidding aside, nowadays, masks instil fear in many people: A ninja disguising his character, a thief covering his full face, or a person wearing a surgical mask can make people shiver in fear of shrinking a transmissible disease.
According to some psychologists, Masklophobia (sometimes referred to as maskaphobia), is a specific phobia used to classify a general and in some cases an irrational fear of masks, people in costumed clothing and mascots which is common among toddlers and young children. The common cause for masklophobia is not known.
Maskaphobia is extremely individualized. Some people fear only horror masks or religious masks. Some people have a more generalized phobia that might even extend beyond masks to costumed characters as well. Clown phobia may also be related to maskaphobia. Common symptoms include, but are not limited to sweating, shaking, crying, and heart palpitations. You might have a panic attack. You might try to run away or even hide from the person in the mask.
In real life, people incline to be pejorative and uncomfortable when meeting new people. Some pretend to be reluctant and dodge expressing their real impression and expression. They cautiously perceive the responses of others and make sure they don’t do anything to affront anyone. In principle, they wear an imperceptible mask. Only after numerous interactions, they progressively let guard down. Sooner or later, they can progress a very close connection with others.
This sensation is very common in our society. However, it doesn’t help to hide who we are just to be accepted or loved by people. By overpowering our uncertainties and qualms, we can take the advantage to take off our masks and construct adjacent connections more rapidly.
This world needs more genuine people who are very much willing to show real identities, accept one another behind any reasons, and diminish barrier of stereotyping to create a progressive society where everyone can live happily without any reservations.
By: Ms. Vanessa G. Arcos|Teacher III| Olongapo City National High School|Olongapo City
