Experts Explain Why Someone Would Cough on Food and Pretend to Have Coronavirus

Experiencing a constant barrage of Covid-19 news can evoke a range of emotions such as anxiety, frustration, and anger in individuals. In an attempt to understand the perplexing behavior exhibited by some during the pandemic, we consulted experts to shed light on the psychological factors at play.

Instances of individuals engaging in troubling acts related to Covid-19 have been reported. For example, a man in New Jersey intentionally coughed on a Wegmans employee and falsely claimed to have the virus, resulting in his arrest on charges of making a terrorist threat. Similarly, a woman in Pennsylvania entered a grocery store and deliberately coughed on a substantial amount of fresh food, leading to significant financial losses. Numerous other incidents involving false claims of having Covid-19 or intentionally spreading germs in public areas have also come to light, creating alarm among the public.

According to Frank Farley, PhD, a Psychology Professor at Temple University and former president of the American Psychological Association (APA), understanding this behavior is a complex matter. He explains that this behavior has not been extensively studied, as it appears to be closely tied to the unique circumstances of the pandemic. The invisible and pervasive threat of Covid-19, which cannot be easily visualized or controlled, creates a sense of overwhelming uncertainty and fear.

Farley suggests that when stress reaches extreme levels, as it has during this global health crisis, some individuals may resort to retaliatory or aggressive behaviors.

Frustration Leads to Aggression

According to Farley, there are three broad schools of thought that explain why some individuals resort to violence and make threatening gestures, which can be applied to the context of the pandemic. One of these theories is rooted in the expression of frustration, known as the frustration-aggression theory. Frustration builds up within individuals, and they seek resolution through episodes of anger or aggression.

This concept can be likened to Freud’s idea of “catharsis,” where individuals seek release from accumulated frustration and tension. In the current context, with numerous frustrations surrounding restrictions on movement and other aspects of daily life, the level of frustration continues to rise. Even seemingly minor triggers in a grocery store, for example, can potentially set individuals off.

Another reason individuals may turn to violence is to manipulate or control situations or other people. Using violence as a means of gaining control or asserting power can be seen in cases where individuals resist arrest by falsely claiming to have COVID-19. This action serves as an attempt to gain control over the situation by leveraging the perceived threat posed by the virus.

Retaliation is also a motive for resorting to violence and aggression. Individuals who fear losing their jobs or become weary of the restrictions and regulations imposed to ensure public safety during the pandemic may engage in retaliatory behaviors. These acts of aggression serve as a way to push back against the perceived oppressiveness of the system.

Fear Leads To Negative Coping Mechanisms

Some individuals may cope with their fear of the coronavirus by adopting a facade of strength or even pretending to have the virus to scare others. According to Carole Lieberman, MD, a psychiatrist, this behavior can be attributed to a psychological defense mechanism known as “reaction formation.” It is akin to what children do when they are scared—they try to scare others to regain a sense of power and control.

In the context of the pandemic, individuals may employ this defense mechanism to conceal their true feelings by behaving in a manner that appears opposite to their fears. For example, someone who is genuinely anxious about contracting the virus may engage in joking or pranking behaviors, pretending to have the virus and coughing or sneezing on others. By doing so, they attempt to alleviate their own anxiety and stress stemming from the pandemic.

Dr. Gail Saltz, a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry, explains that early in the pandemic, there were instances of more subtle pranks or behaviors aimed at making light of the situation. These acts, such as pretending to cough or infect others as a joke or partying in crowded places, can be seen as a defense mechanism—a way for individuals to downplay the seriousness of the virus and alleviate their own fears.

Dr. Saltz acknowledges that during times of extreme fear, denial and coping mechanisms can emerge. Some individuals may use humor or denial as a means to avoid confronting the severity of the situation. Denial and coping mechanisms can be observed throughout history, even in the face of undeniable evidence.

Uncertainty Leads to Power- Or Thrill-seeking

According to Dr. Gail Saltz, when someone purposefully coughs on people or items in a store, they may be motivated by a desire for power and a sense of gratification derived from causing harm to others. These individuals may find pleasure in destructive behavior and derive a sense of power by invoking fear and terror in others. Dr. Saltz refers to this mindset as sadistic, as it involves deriving satisfaction from harming others and making them feel afraid.

Dr. Frank Farley suggests that individuals who engage in such behavior may already have a tendency to push boundaries and take risks. While it is difficult to determine the exact motivations without further study, he believes that some people are drawn to risk-taking and breaking societal norms due to the thrill and stimulation it provides. It is possible that these individuals have a history of pushing the envelope and engaging in risky behavior.

In understanding human psychology, Farley emphasizes that behavior is often motivated by multiple factors rather than a single cause. It is possible that these individuals may have underlying mental health issues in addition to the stress and pressures of society. The current state of the pandemic, including shortages, job losses, and financial difficulties, creates a concerning environment that may lead to increased levels of violence and extreme behaviors.

Farley suggests that the incidents mentioned may be indicative of a trend that could continue as stressors in society persist. It is important to address and mitigate these stressors to prevent further escalation of violence and negative behaviors.