The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Family Relationships

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic was one that changed the lives of people across the globe in every aspect. Particularly, the restrictions on meeting people and the confinement to homes was the greatest impetus for these lifestyle changes. The changes in family dynamics that stemmed from isolation were among the top significant disruptors. Based on a literature view derived from academic and gray literature, this paper explores topics such as the impacts of proximity and separation, parent-child and partner dynamics, birth rates and resulting maternal mental health, and the spike in domestic abuse cases, also known as the dark or shadow pandemic. The dark pandemic raised questions about more accessible and affordable options for victims, such as shelters, and can help incentivize changes, especially in pandemic or isolation contexts. Additionally, proposed solutions include better access to therapy that need not be in person but assures the same quality. In the case of child abuse, it was found that potential responses include easier access to help in the case of social and physical confinement, even outside of the context of a pandemic.