Abstract
Purpose: To illuminate the meaning of social relationships and health concerns as experienced
by adolescents and young people during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: A longitudinal qualitative study was conducted. Data reported from 172 adolescents
and young people aged 12–24 years in five countries; Chile, South Africa, Sweden, the
United Kingdom and the United States collected from May 2020 to June 2021 were analysed
via thematic analysis.
Results: Adolescents and young peoples’ experiences of social relationships and health
concerns were described in seven themes: Family proximity, conflicts and frustration; difficulties
and challenges related to limited living space; peer relations and maintaining friendship
in times of social distancing; the importance of school as a place for interaction;
vulnerability, emotional distress and uncertainty about the future; health concerns and
sense of caring for others; and worries and concerns related to financial hardship. These
reports show that the changes to everyday life that were introduced by public responses to
the pandemic generated feelings of loneliness, vulnerability, and emotional distress, as well as
increased sense of togetherness with family.
Conclusions: The everyday lives of adolescents and young people were restricted and
affected more by the consequences of the pandemic than by the COVID-19 virus. These
experiences had various impacts on well-being and mental health, where some individuals
felt more exposed and vulnerable to emotional distress and loneliness than others. Family
and peer relationships could be protective and support a sense of togetherness and belonging.
Hence, social relationships are important to provide emotional support. Support for
adolescents and young people should be tailored accordingly around social and emotional
concerns, to encourage health and well-being.