Navigating social and academic isolation: a qualitative exploration of American university students' perspectives and experiences early in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ashlynn Lawston, Luna Lowsky, McKenna Ross, Christine Hackman
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objective: To qualitatively explore the multifaceted impacts of the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic on the lives of American university students.Method: Undergraduate students in general education courses at a mid-sized public Western U.S. university were recruited to complete a Qualtrics survey that evaluated their perceptions, beliefs, and behaviours towards COVID-19. Thematic analysis identified prevailing themes regarding the positive and negative changes to students' lives during the pandemic.Results: Participants included undergraduate students (N = 241) between the ages of 18 and 24 (74.7% women), with 49.4% identifying as White. Thematic analysis of the survey identified several codes encompassed by six key themes: (1) shifting social interactions; (2) wellness; (3) school; (4) financial changes; (5) loss of experiences; and (6) political turmoil.Conclusion: Some students identified positive consequences (e.g., more family time, more flexible schedule), while almost all students reported negative consequences (e.g., difficulty with time management and organisation, loss of job or income) of the COVID-19 pandemic. University communities should consider providing additional academic, financial, and mental health resources to students to further mitigate the lasting consequences of the pandemic.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Child & Adolescent Mental Health publishes papers that contribute to improving the mental health of children and adolescents, especially those in Africa. Papers from all disciplines are welcome. It covers subjects such as epidemiology, mental health prevention and promotion, psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, policy and risk behaviour. The journal contains review articles, original research (including brief reports), clinical papers in a "Clinical perspectives" section and book reviews. The Journal is published in association with the South African Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (SAACAPAP).