Abstract
This study explored possible changes in family functioning from the perspective of parents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirty-four parents/guardians of children under 18 years completed a semi-structured interview, average length 47 min. Interviews focussed on changes in different aspects of family functioning including family roles, routines, and rules; parenting practices; communication and relationships; and strengths, challenges, and tensions. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis applied in an idiographic and inductive manner to reduce the loss of individual experiences and perspectives. Four superordinate themes were identified: shifting family roles and boundaries throughout the pandemic; impacts on routines and relationships; opportunities and resourcing; and, experiences of support and unity. Gender differences were evident across some themes, particularly changing roles, workload and work-home boundaries. Challenges and tensions were frequently highlighted, particularly by “vulnerable” family groups such as those with children with disabilities. Parents also described a renewed sense of family and community that underpinned adaptive coping responses. The results highlight the importance of family connectedness in times of need.
Highlights
The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the daily lives of families globally
Four superordinate and nine subordinate themes were identified within the data that related to the research questions presented in this study
Lockdowns have commonly been associated with stress and increased conflict as families negotiate changes in roles, attempt to find a healthier work-life balance and navigate the loss of extended family and social support
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the daily lives of families globally. Various health mandates have been issued across countries in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus. The focus of this study is on the impacts of the Suppress aspect of the plan, including measures such as isolation, quarantine, and regional lockdowns. The Australian Government Department of Health (2020a) defines isolation as the process of separating people with COVID-19 or suspected of having COVID-19, from those who are not ill. Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of individuals exposed to COVID-19 to ascertain if they become ill. The term lockdown has notionally been used to describe a series of government mandated restrictions on the movements of most community
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