Post-Pandemic Disruptions in the Communication Process: A Comparative Analysis of Polish and Vietnamese Students

Purpose:The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global communication, forcing people to adapt to new forms of interaction.The study aimed to understand how the pandemic affected interpersonal and mass communication among young adults in Poland and Vietnam.Design/Methodology/Approach: Online surveys were conducted with 384 students from Poland and 91 students from Vietnam. Findings:The results indicate that the pandemic increased the level of tension and stress during direct communication, especially in Poland.Vietnamese students more frequently observed positive changes in information transmission during the pandemic.The conclusions suggest that cultural differences significantly influence communication preferences and adaptation to new conditions, and the pandemic highlighted the need for flexibility and innovation in communication. Practical Implications: The findings of this study have practical implications for educational institutions and policymakers in both Poland and Vietnam. By highlighting the distinct communication preferences and challenges faced by students in each country, this research provides actionable insights for designing communication strategies and support systems tailored to young adults in a post-pandemic context. Institutions may considerimplementing training sessions focused on enhancing digital communication skills and active listening techniques, which could help reduce the communication barriers that emerged during the pandemic.Additionally, understanding the socio-cultural nuances in communication can assist educators and mental health professionals in creating more inclusive, effective support structures for students dealing with post-pandemic stress and social reintegration challenges.