Children’s Coronavirus Agenda: Qualitative Study

Abstract

Aim:Public health emergencies are not easy for anyone to comprehend or accept and many young children can feel frightened and confused in this process. This study was carried out to determine how the coronavirus disease-2019 experiences of children were evaluated by their parents.Materials and Methods:A qualitative research method was used in this research. The data were collected using a socio-demographic data form and a semi-structured questionnaire. The data of the research were obtained via online methods due to the continuing social isolation measures in Turkey. The study was completed with 28 parents. The data obtained were analysed by thematic coding.Results:Three main themes have been identified regarding the coronavirus agenda of children: (1) children’s questions about coronavirus, (2) children’s statements about coronavirus, (3) children’s reaction to the process. Two sub-themes were identified in each theme. It was found that the children had expressions and questions about corona virus itself, the ways of protection against it, the effects of the virus, what it was and who it would harm. In addition, it was determined that children had emotional and behavioural reactions in this process.Conclusion:In our study results, it was found that the expressions, questions and reactions of children about coronavirus differ according to their ages. Creating an open environment where children are free to ask questions can help them cope with stressful events and experiences and reduce the risk of permanent emotional problems.

Keywords

• coronavirus
• child behaviour
• outbreak
• qualitative study