Controversies of The Post-Lockdown New Normal - It May Not be Entirely Normal

Abstract

Countries entered lockdown or partial lockdown due to mounting fear for the spread of COVID-19 and emerged from the restrictions with presumably new norms, often known as the ‘new normal’. This commentary aims to examine whether the so-called ‘new normal’ qualifies as the new norms based on the definitions of social and cultural norms. The aim was achieved through reviewing pertinent literature comprising news articles, scholarly articles, government reports and websites centering on norms, COVID-19 new norms and their implications. It posits that social isolation does not align with the social nature of human and can be detrimental to the mind and body while social or physical distancing is situational. Unregulated, it does not quite constitute a norm for people to readily maintain social isolation, and social or physical distancing to a lesser degree. While mask-wearing is comparatively easier to adopt, its significance varies in different social and cultural settings. It is more normal to observe people wearing masks post-lockdown, particularly in Asia though experts’ advice does encourage mask-wearing in certain western countries. Mask-wearing aptly qualifies as the new norm though this norm could last longer in certain societies, often strengthened by cultural norms. Similarly, high level of personal hygiene is still practiced often without coercion and is perceived to be normal at least for as long as the risk of COVID-19 is still present. It is thought that norms can be strengthened through interventions to promote behaviours that fit the norms.