Social Impact of COVID-19 on Qatari Families: Challenges and Coping Strategies

Abstract

The pandemic of the coronavirus has swept the world and affected health, economic, social and financial aspects on all countries around the world in an unprecedented way due to its universal spread. Qatar is no exception from these countries. Families in Qatar were greatly disturbed by the pandemic leading to many challenges, which affect their health and social functioning. Using a qualitative approach, this paper examines the social impacts of COVID-19 on families in Qatar and investigates coping strategies that could strengthen family cohesion. Based on in-depth interviews with a total number of 47 Qatari and Non-Qatari male and female participants, the results showed that families faced social challenges such as social isolation, marital disputes, tension between family members and social distancing during lockdown . Coping strategies such as the use of social media, family connectedness, family activities were strategies used by the families to survive the crisis. Policy recommendations and interventions programs is important in aiming for better health and social life needed for the families during the pandemic in Qatar.