Philippine E-Journals

Make It or Break It: Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on the Quality of Social Relationships Among Emerging Adults

Kennilene Bondoc | Juvenal Dalimeg | Allyssa Batu | Mikee Ramos | Erica Joyce Serrano | Jazmin Natasha Smith

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

The COVID-19 pandemic had shifted the lives of individuals especially in the aspect of socialization; hence, this study was conducted to determine the impacts of the implementation of lockdown measures on the social relationship quality among emerging adults. Concomitant output is a proposed wellness program which aims to help raise awareness about the necessity of strong social interactions amidst a pandemic. Descriptive qualitative research and purposive sampling technique were utilized to select participants in a variety of ways considering the objectives and goals of the study. As a result, thirteen (13) emerging adults enrolled at OLFU-Pampanga whose ages range from 18 to 25 years old were carefully chosen. For data collection, the study employed an in-depth semi-structured interview through Google Meet to gather the participants' collective perceptions on the studied phenomenon. The acquired data were analyzed using thematic analysis which was done in three levels: transcription, initial coding, and theme generation. Based on the findings, it was revealed that the lockdown modified the lives of emerging adults, and it impacted their relationships with their family, friends, and romantic partners. It appeared that these changes are categorized both in a positive and negative manner. Specifically, the quality of social relationships among families was enhanced compared to the quality of social relationships among friends, which was either maintained or weakened. Meanwhile, romantic relationships were unfortunately reported to have ended. In line with this, a wellness program consisting of different activities was proposed to promote a strong social relationship in times of crisis.