“Social distancing: barriers to its implementation and how they can be overcome – a rapid systematic review and synthesis of qualitative studies”

Abstract

Aim: To systematically review qualitative literature on social distancing in order to identify and describe factors that enable or prevent its implementation. Methods: A rapid systematic qualitative review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA and ENTREQ guidelines. A comprehensive systematic search was carried out in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, Global Health, CINAHL and Web of Science. Included papers (i) report on primary qualitative studies (ii) of the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of social distancing measures (iii) in potentially epidemic infectious diseases. After critical appraisal and standardised data extraction, a meta-ethnographical approach was used for synthesis. Review findings were assessed for strength and reliability using CerQUAL. Results: 28 papers were included from the systematic search that yielded 5620 results. One additional paper was found by searching references. The review identifies two broad categories of barriers to social distancing measures: individual- or community-level psychological or sociological phenomena, and perceived shortcomings in governmental action. Based on this, 25 themes are identified that can be addressed to improve the implementation of social distancing. Conclusion: There are many barriers, on different levels, to the implementation of social distancing measures. Among other findings, the review identifies the need for good communication as well as the need for authorities to provide comprehensive support as two key opportunities to increase acceptability and adherence. High-quality research is needed during the COVID-19 pandemic to better describe mechanisms by which implementation of social distancing can be improved, and, more importantly, what is already known has to be put into practice.

Institutional and behaviour-change interventions to support COVID-19 public health measures: a review by the Lancet Commission Task Force on public health measures to suppress the pandemic

“…52,53 In Table 2, we draw on several examples to illustrate interventions frequently used by governments according to these groups. 54,55 According to the BCW approach, behavioural interventions likely to be effective should be selected based on understanding the nature of the target behaviour and its context. Depending on what needs to change-motivation and/or capability (e.g.…”

Rapid reviews methods series: guidance on rapid qualitative evidence synthesis

“…Less commonly, an adapted meta-ethnographical approach was used for an implementation model of social distancing where supportive data (29 studies) was plentiful. 48 However, this QES demonstrates several features that subsequently challenge its original identification as ‘rapid’. 49 …”

“…The CQIMG endorses three types of synthesis; thematic synthesis, framework synthesis and meta-ethnography ( box 1 ). 43 44 Rapid QES favour descriptive thematic synthesis 45 or framework synthesis, 46 47 except when theory generation (meta-ethnography 48 49 or analytical thematic synthesis) is a priority ( table 2 , item R17).…”