Social Distancing Through a Cultural Lens: Evidence From Kuwait During COVID-19

The aim of this study was to pinpoint the subcultural variations in Kuwaiti society that contribute to the spread of the coronavirus. Additionally, this study sought to identify which social activities (SAs) are most likely to contribute to the virus’ propagation. Using an opportunistic sampling technique, 3,736 Kuwaiti respondents from all six governorates in Kuwait were selected. An electronic questionnaire was used. It included social and demographic variables, respondents’ background (Urban/Bedouin), and creed (Muslim Sunni/Muslim Shiite). Some scales were used: SA, HCCS, SCES, and SCS. SPSS was used. The main statistical techniques employed in SPSS were ANOVA, t-tests, chi-square, and linear regression. The data indicate that the most frequent sources responsible for transmitting infection have come from family members in households and marriage activities. Significant differences among education, age, gender, and place of living in SA, HCCS, CSES, and SCS were found. Significant differences were found between participants with Urban and Bedouin roots and Sunni and Shiite Muslims in HCCS, SCES, and SCS. Data showed significant differences between social groups in some of their living conditions. Findings demonstrate the significant influence of an individual’s social behavior and cultural values on interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health issues are impacted by cultural variations in social distances between social groups.