A new survey taken by One Poll reveals that two-thirds of the American public no longer feels comfortable in a crowd. Over 2,000 were polled and the results, reported by StudyFinds.org on 23 April, shows:
- Seventy-two percent believe they’re better off having less direct contact with others while traveling;
- Despite far fewer people traveling, only 17 percent agreed getting to one’s destination is easier;
- Nearly 60 percent pack COVID defensive devices such as masks, hand sanitizers, and disinfectant wipes;
- 61 percent get annoyed faster now than before;
- About half of those polled said drinking, unlocking phones, and wearing glasses are a struggle because of face masks and gloves.
Perhaps most alarming, the StudyFinds.org report of the One Poll survey disclosed:
“Six in 10 would rather use their phone to message someone than speak to them face-to-face. Another 63 percent would rather solve annoying pandemic-era problems by phone or text as well. In fact, people would rather text or message for everything—from receiving a refund, to blocking an ex, to chatting with doctors.”
One respondent stated, “I’ve used my phone to text my kids and tell them to call me. It’s been useful to get out of awkward situations and conversations.”
On 24 January, The Guardian published the article, “Lost touch: How a year without hugs affects our mental health.” The opening line sounds the alarm: “Humans are designed to touch and be touched—which is why so many who live on their own have suffered during the pandemic. Will we ever fully recover?”
In addition to the massive psychological problems caused by a fear of touch, it significantly reduces the effectiveness of those needing medical care.
The Guardian interviewed Dr. Katerina Fotopoulou, professor of psychodynamic neuroscience at University College London, who said,
“Touch is a modulator that can temper the effects of stress and pain, physical and emotional. We have seen in our research that a lack of touch is associated with greater anxiety… We’re utterly reliant on the caregiver to satisfy the body’s core needs. Little can be done without touch.”
TREND FORECAST: Even before the COVID War “officially” ends, there will a steady reversal of the fears that had the majority of the public believing in the lockdown laws and obeying the rules imposed on them.
As we continue to forecast, there will be exceptional OnTrendpreneur® opportunities to address the needs and desires of multi-generations who are ready to break out and let loose.