Fear of masks is surprisingly common, especially among children. However, it is essential to note that this fear is often part of normal childhood development. Therefore, like most phobias, it is not diagnosed in children unless it persists for six months or more.
Index
Causes
The precise cause of why a person develops the mask is unknown. Although, it is believed that mass phobia is related to automatonophobia, or fear of humanoid figures. Some experts believe that these phobias (masaphobia and automatonophobia) may be rooted in our expectations of human appearance and behavior.
Masks distort the wearer’s appearance, making it look strange and unusual. Also, most shows do not have a moving mouth, so the sound seems to come out of nowhere when the wearer speaks.
Wearing a mask can also change user behavior. Many people wear masks to become a character, causing the user to act following that character.
Also, some people love the freedom that the anonymity of a mask provides. The user may behave socially inappropriate manner while hiding behind the mask.
You may also be interested in reading: Fear Of Elevators: Causes, Experiences, Treatment.
Role in religin
Even when not in use, the masks often carry a certain mystique. In some cultures, they are used as part of religious ceremonies. Members of that culture may view the masks as a symbol worthy of respect, while those of different religious beliefs may view such masks as harmful or dangerous.
Role in pop culture
Many movies, TV shows, and even Broadway plays exploit the fear of masks. For example, the popular Halloween series centers on a serial killer hiding behind a mask. The Phantom of the Opera explores the fate of a disfigured musical genius who wears a mask to hide his horror.
These and other works demonstrate the effects of masaphobia and help create it. After growing up with the images of serial killers lurking and disfigured antiheroes lurking behind masks, is it any surprise that our brains naturally begin to wonder what’s behind any mask we see?
Symptoms
Mascaphobia is hugely individualized. Some people only fear horror masks or religious masks. Some people have a more pervasive phobia that could extend beyond covers to costumed characters. The aversion to clowns may also be related to masafobia.
Common symptoms include but are not limited to sweating, shaking, crying, and heart palpitations. You could have a panic attack. You could try to run away or even hide from the mask’s person.
Complications
Masks are ubiquitous in the world today. From carnivals to theme parks to movies and store openings, costumed characters can be found almost everywhere. Many of these characters wear masks, which are much cheaper and more accessible than complicated makeup.
If your mask is severe, you could try to avoid situations that could involve shows. But since covers are so standard, this could start to eat up everything. Eventually, some people with masaphobia may become isolated or agoraphobic, fearful of venturing into unfamiliar surroundings.
Treatment for fear of masks
Fortunately, there is some help available. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is widespread and practical. You will be taught to explore your feelings about masks and replace negative messages with more positive self-communication. You may be gradually exposed to different covers through a process known as systematic desensitization.
Hello, how are you? My name is Georgia Tarrant, and I am a clinical psychologist. In everyday life, professional obligations seem to predominate over our personal life. It's as if work takes up more and more of the time we'd love to devote to our love life, our family, or even a moment of leisure.