Exploring American Parents’ Lived Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Ramifications for Well-Being

Authors

Astrida S. Kaugars, Marquette UniversityFollow
Lindsay E. Holly, Marquette UniversityFollow
Mary Tait, Marquette University
Debra L. Oswald, Marquette UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-2022

Publisher

Oxford University Press

Source Publication

Journal of Pediatric Psychology

Source ISSN

0146-8693

Original Item ID

DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsab120

Abstract

Objective

The objective of this study was to document the direct impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on parents and families in the United States.

Methods

Parents’ experiences during the pandemic were examined using an online survey (N = 564) collected during May and June 2020.

Results

Parents reported experiencing a high frequency of COVID-19-related events (e.g., job loss and health concerns) and impact on their lives. Parents’ experiences with COVID-19, as well as self-reported perceived increase in home labor, experiences with assisting children with remote schooling, and work-life conflict were all significantly associated with higher levels of parental role overload. COVID-19-related events and impact, as well as parental role overload, significantly predicted parents’ anxiety and depression, even after controlling for demographic factors.

Conclusions

The findings suggest the importance of providing support for parents and families through direct services and public policy changes.

Comments

Accepted version. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, Vol. 47, No. 2 (March 2022): 135-147. DOI. © 2022 Oxford University Press. Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Kaugars, Astrida S.; Holly, Lindsay E.; Tait, Mary; and Oswald, Debra L., "Exploring American Parents’ Lived Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Ramifications for Well-Being" (2022). Psychology Faculty Research and Publications. 557.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/psych_fac/557