“Covid Was a Worldwide Pandemic That Caused Trauma for Everyone... There Were Also ‘Silver-linings’” – Adult and Youth Qualitative Perspectives

The global COVID-19 pandemic had both detrimental and positive impacts on children, youth, and families. To inform policy and public health recommendations for future services, resources, and mandates, there is a need to take a more holistic approach to understanding stress, adaptations, role shifts, and resilience from multiple perspectives. Using an open-ended question format, this study surveyed parents, childcare providers, and youth (ages 12-17) about their experiences with the pandemic in general and changes observed in their children (adult participants) and themselves (youth participants). Data from 479 participants were analyzed. Via thematic content analysis, nine themes emerged that are organized into five categories: (1) Developmental, (2) impact on loss, (3) modified connections with others, (4) adjustment, and (5) mandate and financial woes. With developmental maturity also came developmental delays. Participants reported heightened anxiety, sadness, and fear of death and illness that is related to the fact that many experienced grief in many ways. Participants reported a variety of adaptive coping strategies that helped them appear resilient. The change to online schooling was particularly challenging for many parents and educators. Some perceived the pandemic mandates to be harmful without alternatives being considered. There is a cautionary tale to be told about public health acceptance and relevance for physical, psychological, and financial health. Families shifted their priorities. Connections with others were strained due to different opinions. Recommendations are offered in preparation for future pandemics that may help families, adults, and youth experience more silver linings and fewer thorns.