Social and personal relationship experiences of parents in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic

COVID-19 has disrupted social and personal relationships, as well as various aspects of the ecological systems of parents in South Africa. Several researchers have explored the impacts that families have experienced worldwide during the pandemic. However, no studies have explored the relationship and lived experiences of South African parents during the COVID-19 pandemic from an ecological systems perspective. The study was qualitative in nature. Eight participants were recruited using non-probability, purposive sampling methods. The researcher ensured that all participation was voluntary, the participants gave their informed consent to participate, and their rights to confidentiality, privacy, and anonymity were upheld throughout the study. Data was gathered using one-on-one semi-structured interviews and subsequently analysed using thematic analysis. The findings suggest that the negative outcomes of COVID-19 experienced by South African parents included a loss of connection and support in relationships, marital conflict, the engagement in multiple roles and responsibilities, experiences of negative feelings and concerns, and the impact that COVID-19 had on their children. On the contrary, the positive outcomes included a deepened sense of connection and support in relationships, increased marital support, higher-quality family time, the experience of remote work, and an increased recognition of inner resilience. The study also found the personal and family coping strategies utilised by parents to manage Covid-19-related stressors. The study’s findings could help professionals design interventions that provide additional support to parents during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in developing countries.