Hotel quarantine and trip-induced wellbeing: the buffering effect of online crisis support

Abstract

ABSTRACT The traumatic effect of quarantine and its subsequent coping strategies have been fairly underexplored. This research note draws on the cognitive appraisal theory (CAT) of stress to put forth a coping mechanism that stems from cognitive appraisals of a stressful isolation encounter to activate coping resources, which render as an oasis to cushion wellbeing degradation. Using a survey-based approach where quarantined lodging guests were sampled, results first establish associations between the stressor/relaxer of a quarantined lodging stay and anxiety under this condition. Further, the buffering effect of crisis support delivered through social media is also evident, suggesting the need to acquire adequate supportive resources amid environmental plight. Taken together, this research note illuminates the role of online crisis support in buffering acute psychological dismay attributed to quarantine. It highlights cognitive appraisals of a mentally/psychologically downward spiral event and its coping mechanism that warrant further inquiry.