Peer Relationships in Children and Youth During COVID-19
Author Information
Author(s): Jordyn Manis, Shannon L. Stewart
Primary Institution: University of Western Ontario
Hypothesis
There will be a relationship between the waves of COVID-19 and peer relationship difficulties.
Conclusion
Overall, there were significantly fewer peer relationship difficulties during COVID-19 compared to the pre-pandemic period.
Supporting Evidence
- Children and youth experienced fewer peer relationship difficulties during COVID-19 compared to pre-pandemic.
- Older children and adolescents were more likely to have peer relationship difficulties than younger children.
- Males experienced more peer relationship difficulties than females during the pandemic.
- Children from lower-income households faced greater peer relationship difficulties during COVID-19.
Takeaway
This study looked at how kids' friendships changed during COVID-19, finding that many had fewer problems with friends during the pandemic.
Methodology
The study assessed peer relationships using the interRAI ChYMH among clinically referred children and youth across different COVID-19 waves.
Potential Biases
Higher income families were more likely to be referred for mental health services during the pandemic.
Limitations
Findings may not be generalizable to children not seeking mental health services or those in different regions.
Participant Demographics
Participants were children and youth aged 4 to 18 years receiving mental health services in Ontario.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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