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The negative and positive: perceptions regarding COVID-19 pandemic among an online sample of adults; qualitative study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The novel coronavirus disease, which is a global public health issue, changed the regular lifestyle of public globally causing multitude of stressors. This study aimed to describe the perception regarding the COVID-19 pandemic among an online sample of adults in Sri Lanka. METHODS: A descriptive exploratory study was conducted with a purposive selected sample of general public in Sri Lanka. Twelve in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide until data saturation. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: All participants were below 50 years and educated upto advanced level. Seven themes were identified based on in-depth interviews; (1) traditional views regarding disease; (2) fear; (3) disrupted future plans; (4) impaired sense of responsibilities; (5) intense work stress (6) time to cherish, and (7) anticipated adjustments for future pandemics. CONCLUSIONS: People have experienced fear, uncertainty, distracted future plans, and work stress due to the pandemic. However, they have also enjoyed spending time with their family members during this period.

Source: BMC Public Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12889-025-22168-7

Authors: Thamudi Darshi Sundarapperuma, Madushika Wishvanie Kodagoda Gamage, Nirmala Rathnayake, Eranthi Bimalee Weeratunga, Hemamali Madhushanthi Hirimbura Jagodage

Institution: University of Ruhuna

Language: English

Topic: COVID-19 and Mental Health

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,290