Exploring experiences with stressors and coping resources among Dutch socioeconomic groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. (16th February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van der Kamp, Dani; Torensma, Marieke; Vader, Sarah; Pijpker, Roald; den Broeder, Lea; Fransen, Mirjam P; Wagemakers, Annemarie
• Is Part Of: Health promotion international. Volume 38:Number 1(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-02-16
• Subjects: salutogenesis -- COVID-19 -- socioeconomic status -- resilience; Health promotion -- Periodicals; 362.1
• DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac198
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0957-4824

Abstract

Summary: The COVID-19 crisis impacts populations globally. This impact seems to differ for groups with low- and high-socioeconomic status (SES). We conducted a qualitative study in the Netherlands using a salutogenic perspective to examine experiences with stressors and coping resources during the pandemic among both SES groups to gain insight on how to promote the health and well-being of these groups. We conducted 10 focus group discussions and 20 interviews to explore the experiences, including resources and stressors, of respondents from low- ( N = 37) and high-SES ( N = 38) groups (25–55 years, Dutch speaking). We analyzed the findings at individual, community, and national levels. The results show that coping depends on government-imposed measures and the way individuals handle these measures; restriction to the home context with positive and negative consequences for work and leisure; psychological negative consequences and resourcefulness; and social effects related to unity (e.g. social cohesion or support) and division (including polarization). Respondents with lower SES expressed more problems with COVID-19 measures and experienced more social impact in their neighborhood than those with higher SES. Where low-SES groups especially mentioned the effects of staying at home on family life, high-SES groups mentioned effects on work life. At last, psychological consequences seem to differ somewhat across SES groups. Recommendations include consistent government-imposed measures and government communication, support for home schooling children, and strengthening the social fabric of neighborhoods.