Virtual Learning and Parental Stress Experience in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study in Tabas City

Introduction: One of the problems and challenges of families in the COVID-19 pandemic was the education of children. This study aims to discover and analyze the tensions and concerns of families in this regard. Method: This qualitative study was conducted in 2021 in Tabas. Semi-structured interviews with 17 parents were used to collect data and the data were analyzed by thematic analysis. Results: Data analysis showed that parents have experienced multiple concerns and tensions regarding their children's education in the pandemic. The issue of education quality on one hand and sociocultural challenges related to virtual space on the other hand was the most important concern of parents. The four themes of the study included socialization challenges, education problem, media panic, and economic and environmental problems. Discussion: It is suggested that policy makers pay more attention to the problems of families in the field of virtual learning. Attention should be given to vulnerable groups and families, so that the issue of educational deprivation does not threaten the children of these families. On the other hand, sociocultural issues related to media and poor media literacy of parents are a major challenge in this field. It is necessary for sociocultural custodians as well as researchers and social theorists to provide theoretical discussions and solutions using psychology and social work in this field.