抄録
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, wearing a mask has become commonly implemented in school life. Compared to adults, there is a lack of knowledge on the effects of mask-wearing on facial expression recognition in children. Hence, this study aimed to investigate this relationship for Japanese preschool children. We collected data from 58 children aged 3–5 years. The children were asked to indicate the type of facial expression from 18 facial expression stimuli that were displayed individually on a screen, consisting of three types of facial expressions (happy, anger, and sadness) × three levels of emotional intensity (weak, moderate, strong) × with or without a mask. The global correct response rate was 86% in preschool children. Wearing a mask significantly reduced correct responses in children (88 to 83%). Happy and stronger emotional intensity (moderate to strong) was associated with higher accuracy. The results suggest that the effect of wearing a mask on facial expression recognition is significant; however, the effects are limited in preschool children.
