Determining the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Family Life in Turkey

Aim: This study aimed to examine perceived changes in family life and levels of family tension and distress during the COVID-19 pandemic in Türkiye. Materials and Methods: Participants were recruited using a non-probability sampling method. An a priori sample-size calculation conducted using G-Power indicated that at least 469 participants were required based on the prespecified statistical assumptions. A total of 631 participants were included. Data were collected using a questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, the Family Tension Index, and the Family Distress Index. Results: Among the participants, 58.5% stated that their family economy, 65.9% their family routine, 76.1% their social relationships, and 71.8% their sleep patterns were affected by the pandemic. Additionally, 38.3% reported negative changes. Furthermore, 18.7% stated that domestic violence had emerged, and 88.1% reported an increase in technology use. The mean Family Tension Index score was found to be 23.12 ± 16.31, and the mean Family Distress Index score was 11.73 ± 10.04. A statistically significant relationship was found between the Family Tension Index and having an extended family, having an income lower than expenses, being divorced, and having a disabled or chronically ill family member (p < 0.05). Similarly, Family Distress Index scores were significantly higher among divorced individuals and those with a disabled or chronically ill family member, and differed significantly according to income status (p < 0.05). Conclusion and Recommendations: The findings revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic had numerous negative effects on the lives of family members, the fundamental unit of society. Overall, the results demonstrate that the pandemic made existing economic, social, and psychosocial vulnerabilities more visible, strengthened the factors determining intra-family tension and distress levels, and played a decisive role in shaping family functioning.