Lay perspectives on social distancing and other official recommendations and regulations in the time of COVID-19: a qualitative study of social media posts

Abstract

Background Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by a new form of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) first appeared in China end of 2019 and quickly spread to all counties of the world. To slow down the spread of the virus and to limit the pressure on the health care systems, different regulations and recommendations have been implemented by authorities, comprising amongst others the closure of all entertainment venues and social distancing. These measures have received mixed reactions, particularly from young individuals, with many not following available advice. Drawing on the information in social media discussion forums, the present study explores the reasons why people ignore the orders and recommendations of the authorities and why the authorities are unable to produce a shared sense of inclusion concerning protective measures against the coronavirus outbreak. Methods Three open-access social media forums (Reddit, Twitter, and YouTube comments) were systematically searched with respect to coronavirus/COVID-19-related beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours of individuals. The data was retrieved in the first three weeks of March 2020. Qualitative document analysis and qualitative content analysis were used as the methodical approach. The data was reviewed by all authors and jointly interpreted to minimise inconsistencies. Results In the analysis, 22 threads were used from the aforementioned websites. Six main themes were identified: information pollution on social media, the need to know the unusual threat that spreads rapidly, the impacts of the social environment, the role of government’s representatives and politicians, aids without concrete economic steps to satisfy them, and self-criticism by parents related to the behaviours and attitudes of their children. Conclusion In uncertain crises, transparency in the presentation of information and government policies emerge as influential determinants in creating social susceptibility and solidarity. The results further reveal the potential advantages and opportunities of using social media data in scientific investigations.

Anger and confrontation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a national cross-sectional survey in the UK

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Distanciamento social e condições de vida na pandemia COVID-19 em Salvador-Bahia, Brasil

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“…The quality of information, government officials' credibility, and uncertainty about the virus also affect adherence. How public health authorities report on the importance of distancing can bring higher or lower confidence in the measure 8,15 .…”

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“…Media sources have a potent influence on public opinion, policy, and practice through selective communication about certain aspects of a perceived reality that become salient in the thinking and views of the public. 4 During the pandemic, social media has been examined for lay perspectives and regulations, 5 and medical professional opinions and recommendations. 6 News media has received less attention but also contributes importantly to public perception.…”