Perception of Brazilian university professors on socioeconomic, professional and public policy conditions during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The pandemic of the new coronavirus influenced professors’ social and professional behaviors due to the restrictive measures of social isolation. The study aimed to identify the perception of teachers about the feeling of well-being, socioeconomic conditions, professionals and family relationships in the face of the challenges imposed in the initial period of the Covid-19 pandemic. A total of 340 Brazilian university professors participated. Data collection was carried out using a Google Forms questionnaire, consisting of 23 questions. As for the profile of professors, most were female (56.5%), white (93.5%) and the age group from 50 to 59 years (37%) was more prevalent. Most teachers (54.9%) positively evaluated municipal public policies to face the Covid-19 pandemic. About the feeling of well-being and pleasure of living, more than a third were satisfied, but leisure activities were impaired (66.7%). Regarding family relationships, 68.2% reported satisfaction, as well as the perception that post-pandemic life will be permanently changed (79.7%). The establishment of institutional guidelines for the implementation of wellness programs in the workplace can reduce the health risks and absenteeism of this professional category.