1
|
Closson K, Dong E, Zulu B, Dietrich JJ, Zharima C, Jesson J, Pakhomova T, Beksinska M, Kaida A. 'Life became harder with COVID-19': exploring the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic among youth living in eThekwini district, South Africa. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1922. [PMID: 39020372 PMCID: PMC11256542 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19238-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In South Africa, pervasive age and gender inequities have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and public health response. We aimed to explore experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic among youth in eThekwini district, South Africa. METHODS Between December 2021-May 2022 we explored experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth aged 16-24 residing in eThekwini, South Africa. We collated responses to the open-ended question "Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected you in any other way you want to tell us about?" in an online survey focused on understanding the pandemic's multi-levelled health and social effects. We used a thematic analysis to summarise the responses. RESULTS Of 2,068 respondents, 256 (12.4%, median age = 22, 60.9% women) completed the open-ended survey question (11% in isiZulu). Results were organized into three main themes encompassing (1) COVID-19-related loss, fear, grief, and exacerbated mental and physical health concerns; (2) COVID-19-related intensified hardships, which contributed to financial, employment, food, education, and relationship insecurities for individuals and households; and (3) positive effects of the pandemic response, including the benefits of government policies and silver linings to government restrictions. CONCLUSIONS We found that South African youth experienced significant grief and multiple losses (e.g., death, income, job, and educational) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Trauma-aware interventions that provide economic and educational opportunities must be included in post-COVID recovery efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalysha Closson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
- Center of Gender Equity and Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.
| | - Erica Dong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Bongiwe Zulu
- Wits MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Janan J Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa
- African Social Sciences Unit of Research and Evaluation (ASSURE), Wits Health Consortium, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Campion Zharima
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre for Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Julie Jesson
- Center for Epidemiology and Research in POPulation Health (CERPOP), Inserm, Université de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Tatiana Pakhomova
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Mags Beksinska
- Wits MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Deitz AHH. Self-compassion, childhood emotional neglect, and posttraumatic growth: Parental well-being during COVID-19. J Affect Disord 2024; 350:504-512. [PMID: 38244798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The CoronaVirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic can be conceptualized as a trauma that created additional unique stressors for parents. Self-compassion might promote posttraumatic growth (PTG); however, parents with histories of childhood emotional neglect may struggle to practice self-compassion when their own affectional needs were unmet earlier in life, carrying implications for both parental and child well-being. The objective is to examine the relationship between childhood emotional neglect and pandemic-related PTG, and the moderating role of self-compassion. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey collected information from 436 parents (M = 37.62 years, SD = 9.31) across the U.S. on pandemic- and parenting-related stresses, childhood emotional neglect, self-compassionate behavior, psychological distress, and pandemic-related PTG. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to analyze relationships among childhood emotional neglect, self-compassionate behavior, and pandemic-related PTG. RESULTS Parents who reported greater frequency of self-compassionate behavior tended to report higher pandemic-related PTG. Childhood emotional neglect alone did not predict pandemic-related PTG; however, for parents who reported less frequent self-compassionate behavior, greater childhood emotional neglect predicted lower pandemic-related PTG. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional design and sample homogeneity limit both causal inference and generalizability. Limitations in operationalization of PTG and self-compassion constructs are discussed. CONCLUSIONS Findings emphasize the utility of self-compassionate behavior in promoting pandemic-related PTG, especially for adults with histories of childhood emotional neglect. Self-compassion is a freely accessible practice that individuals can implement successfully with minimal instruction. In terms of clinical relevance, therapists may be able to identify points of intervention wherein self-compassion may stimulate pandemic-related PTG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allison H H Deitz
- University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Social Work, 525 W. Redwood Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wu A. The relationship of social support to posttraumatic growth in COVID-19 among college students after experiencing campus lockdown: the effects of belief in a just world and meaning in life. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1337030. [PMID: 38333893 PMCID: PMC10850338 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1337030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Campus lockdown orders were issued for the purpose of preventing and controlling COVID-19, which resulted in psychological problems among college students. However, the experiences they have during the pandemic may also lead to positive personal changes, including posttraumatic growth (PTG). The current study examined the mediating role of belief in a just world and meaning in life in social support and PTG during the COVID-19 campus lockdown. Method An online survey was conducted on 1711 college students in Hebei Province, China. Based on the survey results, a structural equation model was established. Results Social support positively predicted PTG. Furthermore, belief in a just world and meaning in life played a mediating role between social support and PTG respectively. Besides, social support could also predict PTG through the multiple serial mediating effect of belief in a just world and meaning in life. Conclusion These results indicated mechanisms by which social support influenced PTG, and this provided insights into how to promote post-traumatic growth among university students in the post-pandemic period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aoyu Wu
- Department of Civil Engineering, Hebei Jiaotong Vocational and Technical College, Shijiazhuang, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhang Y, Zhang N, Da L, Feng D, Zhao C. Risk perception predicts post-traumatic growth during the COVID-19 pandemic in China: the mediation effect of engaging in health-protective behaviors. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2024; 29:362-374. [PMID: 37899648 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2274313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the public to enormous health risks and induced wide-ranging impacts on people's mental health. Post-traumatic growth is a possible psychological benefits that may occur during struggling with the COVID-19 pandemic. This research explored 1) demographics differences on risk perception of COVID-19 pandemic, engagement in health-protective behavior and post-traumatic growth during the COVID-19 pandemic; and 2) the mediation effect of engaging in health-protective behaviors between risk perception and post-traumatic growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Females showed a significant higher level of engagement in health-protective behaviors. People who were married reported a significantly higher level of risk perception, engagement in health-protective behavior and post-traumatic growth than those who were in other marital status (i.e. single, divorced, widowed). People who had acquaintances being infected with COVID-19 reported significant higher level of risk perception and engagement in health-protective behaviors. Engagement in health-protective behaviors mediated the relationship between risk perception and post-traumatic growth. Implications of the results for public health interventions are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Department of Social Medicine School of Public Health and Center for Clinical Big Data and Analytics of The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Social Medicine School of Public Health and Center for Clinical Big Data and Analytics of The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lijuan Da
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Danyuan Feng
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Caifeng Zhao
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhou X, Chen Y, Zhu L, An Z, Zhang J, Ge J. The Association Between Group Identity and Post-Traumatic Growth in the Post COVID-19 Era: The Mediating Effect of Social-Emotional Competence. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:2869-2882. [PMID: 37534300 PMCID: PMC10390763 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s419484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the impact of human-society relationships on individual post-traumatic growth (PTG) in the post COVID-19 era, this study examined the association between group identity (GI) and PTG, and explored the mediating role of social-emotional competence (SEC). Patients and Methods In this cross-sectional study, we surveyed 1203 high school students in an eastern region of China using the GI Scale, the SEC Scale, and the PTG Scale. We conducted correlation and mediation analyses using SPSS 23.0 and PROCESS software. Results The results indicated that GI was a significant positive predictor of PTG (β=0.219, p<0.001), and that the pathway between GI and PTG was partially mediated by SEC (Effect=0.074, 95% CI= [0.045,0.104]). Conclusion GI can have both direct and indirect effects on PTG, with the latter mediated by SEC. These findings hold important theoretical and practical implications for promoting PTG and enhancing mental health in the post COVID-19 era.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhou
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yifei Chen
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lidong Zhu
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenni An
- College of Education and Human Development, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianzhen Zhang
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiahao Ge
- College of Education and Human Development, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
El Khoury-Malhame M, Sfeir M, Hallit S, Sawma T. Factors associated with posttraumatic growth: gratitude, PTSD and distress; one year into the COVID-19 pandemic in Lebanon. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023:1-10. [PMID: 36684466 PMCID: PMC9838499 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-04159-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Almost one year since the COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic, mental distress remains elevated with high prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet studies suggest these challenging circumstances might be conducive of post-traumatic growth (PTG). This study aims to investigate the factors associated with growth after the original trauma. A sample of 252 Lebanese adults filled an online survey to determine levels of PTG, PTSD and gratitude using validated self-rating scales. Participants also subjectively evaluated the sources of their distress such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Beirut port explosion and/or their deteriorating financials. The PTGi-SF evaluated dimensions of growth while the IES-R_22 measured the degree of distress post-trauma. The GQ-6 was used to measure the proneness to experience gratitude daily. Results indicated 41% of participants scored above the cutoff for PTSD symptomatology. Yet, PTSD was positively correlated, alongside gratitude and accumulated subjective distress, with higher levels of PTG. A forward linear regression taking PTG scores as the dependent variable further showed that more gratitude (Beta = 0.57), a higher impact of events (Beta = 0.16), and knowing anyone who died from COVID-19 (Beta = 3.93) were significantly associated with more growth. The study highlights elevated levels of PTSD symptoms in a context of a global pandemic worsened by financial and socio-political instabilities. It mostly identifies personal factors, including high initial symptomatology post-trauma and gratitude, related to the capacity for growth in spite of these accumulating hardships. As such, it advocates the need to investigate and bolster silver linings amidst unprecedented traumas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Myriam El Khoury-Malhame
- Department of Social and Education Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Michel Sfeir
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Toni Sawma
- Department of Social and Education Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ni T, Zhang Y, Xue S, Xu W, Tang W. PTSD and depressive symptoms in Chinese adolescents exposed to multiple stressors from natural disasters, stressful life events, and maltreatment: A dose-response effect. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1050260. [PMID: 36591085 PMCID: PMC9794843 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1050260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Little is known about the effects and the extent that childhood adversity has on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Study design A population-based, epidemiological study from the Wenchuan earthquake. Methods A total of 5,195 Wenchuan Earthquake adolescent survivors aged 11-18 years from nine high schools in southwest China completed questionnaires that assessed their PTSD and depression symptoms due to childhood maltreatment, stressful life events, and childhood earthquake exposure. Results The PTSD and depression prevalences were 7.1 and 32.4%. After controlling for age and gender, the multiple linear regressions revealed that stressful life events had the most significant direct effect on depression (β = 0.491), followed by childhood emotional abuse (β = 0.085), and earthquake exposure (β = 0.077). Similarly, stressful life events (β = 0.583) were found to have more significant direct effects on PSTD, followed by earthquake exposure (β = 0.140); however, childhood emotional abuse was not found to have an effect. The structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that there were interactions between the three childhood adversities, with all three concurrently affecting both PTSD and depression. Conclusion These findings add weight to the supposition that psychological maltreatment, negative life events, and earthquake exposure contribute to PTSD and depression. In particular, the identification of subgroups that have a high prevalence of these childhood adversities could assist professionals to target populations that are at high risk of mental health problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Ni
- College of Environment and Civil Engineering, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- School of Economics and Business Administration, Yibin University, Yibin, China
| | - Shuang Xue
- Department of Sociology and Psychology, School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenjian Xu
- Department of Sociology and Psychology, School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanjie Tang
- Mental Health Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Wanjie Tang,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang X, Lu X, Hu T, Xue S, Xu W, Tang W. Optimism and friendship quality as mediators between trait emotional intelligence and life satisfaction in Chinese adolescents: A two-wave longitudinal study. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-10. [PMID: 36468160 PMCID: PMC9684851 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03931-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Using a convenience sample of adolescents (N = 1609; 63.5% female; M age = 16.54), this study explored whether EI predicted adolescent life satisfaction and whether friendship quality and optimism mediated this relationship during the COVID-19 pandemic. The structural equation modeling revealed that EI predicted adolescent life satisfaction, friendship quality, and optimism, friendship quality partially mediated the relationship between EI and life satisfaction, and optimism partially mediated the relationship between EI and friendship quality. These findings prove that psychological or educative approaches focused on EI could increase life satisfaction in adolescents during difficult times such as COVID-19, but EI may be linked with life satisfaction via friendship quality only. Training in optimism approaches and friendship quality enhancement programs could also effectively promote life satisfaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Education and Psychology, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiong Lu
- Department of Education and Psychology, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Hu
- Department of Education and Psychology, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuang Xue
- Faculty of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenjian Xu
- Faculty of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanjie Tang
- Mental Health Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang Y, Zhao Y, Ni T, Chen J, Tang W. Alexithymia and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in Chinese undergraduate students during the COVID-19 national lockdown: The mediating role of sleep problems and the moderating role of self-esteem. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1040935. [PMID: 36438324 PMCID: PMC9691979 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1040935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined whether sleep disturbance was a mediator between alexithymic traits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) COVID-19 pandemic-related stress symptoms, and explored whether self-esteem moderated the alexithymic contribution to poor sleep and PTSD symptoms. METHOD A representative sample of young adults (N = 2,485) from six universities in Southwest China completed online self-report surveys on alexithymia, sleep, PTSD, self-esteem, sociodemographic information, and health-related behaviors. RESULTS High alexithymic young adults were found to be more likely to have higher sleep problems and higher PTSD symptoms. The moderated mediation model showed that sleep problems mediated the associations between alexithymia and PTSD symptoms. Alexithymic people with lower self-esteem were more likely to have elevated PTSD symptoms and sleep problems than those with higher self-esteem. CONCLUSION Targeted psychological interventions for young people who have difficulty expressing and identifying emotions are recommended as these could assist in reducing their post-traumatic psychophysical and psychological problems. Improving self-esteem could also offer some protection for trauma-exposed individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- School of Economics and Business Administration, Yibin University, Yibin, China,School of Business, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yijin Zhao
- Mental Health Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Division of Accounting, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Ni
- School of Business, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China,College of Environment and Civil Engineering, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Psychology and Education, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Jing Chen,
| | - Wanjie Tang
- Mental Health Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Jing Chen,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zeng Z, Wang X, Chen Q, Gou Y, Yuan X. Core belief challenge moderated the relationship between posttraumatic growth and adolescent academic burnout in Wenchuan area during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1005176. [PMID: 36248552 PMCID: PMC9554300 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1005176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the characteristics of posttraumatic growth (PTG) and academic burnout among adolescents in an ethnic minority area in China during the COVID-19 pandemic, and examines the moderating role of core belief challenge on the association between PTG and academic burnout. This study surveyed 941 secondary school students in Wenchuan using the posttraumatic growth inventory, adolescent academic burnout inventory, core beliefs inventory, and a self-designed demographic questionnaire. The results showed that: (1) Five months after the COVID-19 outbreak in China, the level of PTG among adolescents in the Wenchuan area was high and its prevalence was 32.3%. Among them, the dimension of perceived changes in self was the highest, and the PTG level of junior high school students was higher than that of high school students. The academic burnout level of adolescents, particularly emotional exhaustion, was also high. The academic burnout level of the high school students was higher than that of junior high school students. (2) There was a significant negative correlation between PTG and academic burnout among adolescents. (3) Core belief challenge moderated the relationship between PTG and academic burnout. PTG had a significant negative predictive effect on adolescents’ academic burnout only when the core belief challenge was above a moderate level. These results showed the uniqueness of PTG and psychological behavioral problems of adolescents in ethnic minority areas during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also emphasized the key role of core belief challenge in the process of PTG in reducing adolescents’ academic burnout. Based on these results, recommendations are provided to alleviate academic burnout among adolescents in Wenchuan against the background of the COVID-19 pandemic. While providing full play to ethnic minority cultural characteristics to promote posttraumatic growth, guiding adolescents’ value reflection and cognitive reconstruction should be focused on.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyu Zeng
- School of Education and Psychology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaogang Wang
- School of Education and Psychology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Key Research Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiuyan Chen
- School of Education and Psychology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Key Research Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yushi Gou
- School of Education and Psychology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaojiao Yuan
- School of Education and Psychology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Key Research Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaojiao Yuan,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Xie JQ, Zhang H, Zhang X, Yin MZ, Yang J, Chen K, Xiong JR, Chen YQ. The mediating role of personal values between COVID-19-related posttraumatic growth and life satisfaction among Chinese college students: A two-wave longitudinal study. Front Psychol 2022; 13:926375. [PMID: 36211842 PMCID: PMC9542355 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.926375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable disruption of social order caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has also been said to contribute to positive psychological changes and influence on the perception of public life satisfaction. The present study aimed to explore the association between the COVID-19 related posttraumatic growth and life satisfaction and the mediating role of personal values. A two-wave longitudinal design was used. 226 self-quarantined Chinese college students (58.8% male) completed post traumatic growth inventory (Time 1), satisfaction with life scale (Time 2), personal values questionnaire (Time 2) between February 2020 and May 2021. Results showed that more than half of self-quarantined Chinese college students reported moderate to high levels of the COVID-19 related posttraumatic growth. A structural equation model revealed that COVID-19 related posttraumatic growth was positively associated to life satisfaction, and self-transcendence and self-enhancement values partially mediated this association. These findings shed light on whether and how pandemic-related posttraumatic growth influenced personal life satisfaction, supporting the outcome and process perspectives of posttraumatic growth as well as Schwartz’s value theory. Based on the findings, some positive psychology interventions, such as online rumination activities and mindfulness practice, were proposed to enhance self-quarantined college students’ posttraumatic growth and life satisfaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Qiong Xie
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming-Ze Yin
- Faculty of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Office of Social Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ke Chen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Ke Chen,
| | - Jian-Ru Xiong
- Department of Student Affairs, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- Jian-Ru Xiong,
| | - Yi-Qiang Chen
- School of Foreign Languages and Cultures, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- Yin-Qiang Cheniongji,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wenter A, Schickl M, Sevecke K, Juen B, Exenberger S. Children's Mental Health During the First Two Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Burden, Risk Factors and Posttraumatic Growth - A Mixed-Methods Parents' Perspective. Front Psychol 2022; 13:901205. [PMID: 35719524 PMCID: PMC9201953 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.901205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying containment measures such as physical distancing and school closures led to major changes in children's everyday lives. By means of a mixed-methods study, the "Tyrolean COVID-19 Children's Study" investigated the effects of the pandemic and factors influencing mental health and health-related quality of life of North Tyrolean (Austria) and South Tyrolean (Italy) children aged 3-13 years. Parents filled out N = 2,691 online questionnaires (951 preschool children: 3-6 years; 1,740 schoolchildren: 7-13 years) at four measurement time points (March 2020, December 2020, June 2021, December 2021). For both age groups, children's mental health outcomes (internalising problems, posttraumatic stress symptoms) were worse in December 2021 (t4) than children's mental health outcomes in March 2020 (t1). With regard to aggressive behaviour, this difference was only found among schoolchildren. Thematic analysis of an open ended, written question revealed the following positive changes in children during the Corona crisis: (1) the importance of intra- and extra-familial relationships, (2) new competences and experiences, (3) values and virtues, (4) use of time, and (5) family strength. Using multilevel modelling, threat experience, economic disruption, and perceived posttraumatic growth were shown to be the strongest predictors of all outcomes. Additionally, male gender was shown to be a predictor of aggressive behaviour. In terms of age, schoolchildren showed more internalising problems, aggressive behaviour, and threat experience than preschool children. With regard to time, parents in December 2021 reported more threat experience in older children and less perceived posttraumatic growth in both older and younger children, than parents at the beginning of the pandemic. Targeted support for vulnerable children may prevent longer-term development of psychopathologies and contribute to society's psychosocial resilience in the current COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, sustainable promotion of children's posttraumatic growth can also contribute to children's mental health and could even offer a chance to turn the crisis into an opportunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wenter
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Maximilian Schickl
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Kathrin Sevecke
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Tirol Kliniken, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Barbara Juen
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Silvia Exenberger
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Tirol Kliniken, Innsbruck, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zakeri MA, Dakkalirad A, Saedi F, Shahnavazi A, Kordi M, Ahmadipour M, Dehghan M. Depression and Self-Efficacy Among Iranian Children During the Prevalence of COVID-19 Disease. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:888712. [PMID: 35844744 PMCID: PMC9279903 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.888712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has quickly endangered the physical and mental health of people in the community, particularly vulnerable people such as children. This study was carried out to investigate the depression and self-efficacy of Iranian children during the COVID-19 outbreak. This cross-sectional research was conducted on 321 students aged 8 to 17 in southeast Iran. A social media-based online questionnaire was used to collect data. The information was gathered using demographic and COVID-related items, the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), and the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire for Children (SEQ-C). No significant correlation was observed between depression and self-efficacy of children (P = 0.23). However, in subscale of CDI, negative mood, ineffectiveness and negative self-esteem had a significant correlation with self-efficacy (<0.001). Depression had a significant correlation with family income (p = 0.017), being at risk of coronavirus infection (p = 0.036), effectiveness of preventive measures (p = 0.015) and how information about the coronavirus disease was obtained (p = 0.018). According to the results, the mean score of depression was higher than the midpoint of the questionnaire in Iranian children, therefore, it is needed to take the necessary measures and treatment plans to reduce the rate of depression in children. Further research is needed to assess and prevent childhood depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ali Zakeri
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.,Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Abdollah Dakkalirad
- Tropical and Communicable Disease Reasearch Center, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Saedi
- Shafa Hospital, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Allahyar Shahnavazi
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Mehri Kordi
- Nursing Office, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Maryam Ahmadipour
- Department of Pediatric, Afzalipour Hospital, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mahlagha Dehghan
- Department of Critical Care Nursing, Razi Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Li G, Liu H, Qiu C, Tang W. Fear of COVID-19, prolonged smartphone use, sleep disturbances, and depression in the time of COVID-19: A nation-wide survey. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:971800. [PMID: 36311498 PMCID: PMC9614217 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.971800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has had a wide range of behavioral and psychological effects on the general population. This study examined the relationship between fear of COVID-19, daily smartphone use, sleep disturbance, and depression in the general population during the early stage of COVID-19. METHODS An online nation-wide survey was conducted from March 20 to April 10, 2020. Sociodemographic information, including age, gender, educational attainment, vocation, and duration of self-isolation, was collected; fear of COVID-19 and other objective exposures, daily hours of smartphone use, night sleep duration, sleep disturbance, and depressive symptoms were measured with structured questions and PHQ-9. There were 1,280 questionnaires in total, and 1,250 valid questionnaires remained. RESULTS The prevalence of sleep disturbance and depression were found to be 13.1 and 10.7%, respectively. Feelings of extreme fear, longer smartphone use, difficulty initiating sleep, and early morning awakening were significant risk factors for depression. Daily hours of smartphone use, difficulty initiating sleep, and early morning awakening partially mediated the association between feeling extremely scared of the pandemic and depression. CONCLUSION Psychological interventions in a major public health crisis should focus more on the subjective perception of pandemic fear. At the same time, daily smartphone use and sleep disturbances could serve as targets for monitoring and intervention for depression during a pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gangqin Li
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Liu
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Changjian Qiu
- Mental Health Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanjie Tang
- Mental Health Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|