FAMILY AND KINSHIP TIES AMIDST THE COVID-19: FINDINGS FROM A CROSSSECTIONAL STUDY IN BANGLADESH

Abstract Many people across the world have been affected by the deadliest COVID-19 since its advent at the end of 2019. A plethora of studies are already in place to realize its severity on humanity, public health, economies, and society. The current study focuses on the significance of family and kinship amidst a massive health emergency like COVID-19. This is a qualitative cross-sectional study based on semi-structured interviews with 30 coronavirus survivors conducted in three divisional cities in Bangladesh. The data of the study were analyzed narratively using direct quotations to manifest the experiences of their lives as victims of a mysterious virus. The study has relevance to the functionalist perspective of society that considers the family as a fundamental social institution that serves the needs of individuals to retain social order. The study portrays that once infected with the coronavirus most participants had to go through formidable challenges including managing a place for isolation at home, doing household chores and childcare, and coping with the economic losses caused by the illness. In such a situation, cooperation and support from other family members and kinfolk have been found precious regarding their survival in all aspects. Keywords: Bangladesh, Challenges, Coronavirus, COVID-19, Family, kinship