Mothers’ Experiences of Emotional Connection During COVID-19 in the United States: A Thematic Analysis

Understanding the role of social support in mitigating the stress associated with disease outbreaks is imperative. This qualitative study explored how mothers with children between the ages of 5 and 12 years (N = 185) in the United States drew on social support resources to maintain emotional connections during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were gathered through an online survey. Technology and physically distanced, in-person interactions with a close group of friends or family were two primary ways participants maintained emotional connection. Participants reported that important qualities of emotional connection included empathy, acceptance, and value agreement. Implications for practice include identifying technology-based and safe, in-person strategies for clients and patients to connect with family members and close friends to maintain vital emotional and social support resources.

"Making Sure We Are All Okay": Healthcare Workers' Strategies for Emotional Connectedness During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Healthcare workers have been on the front lines throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, treating affected patients and navigating overwhelmed healthcare systems. Emotional connection has been associated with resilient outcomes following collective trauma. This qualitative study examined how healthcare workers define emotional connectedness during the COVID-19 pandemic and their adaptive emotional connection strategies. Data were gathered through the first wave of the online COVID-19 Pandemic and Emotional Well-Being study, a prospective panel study of the psychological impact of COVID-19 on frontline workers and the general public. This study focused on three extended-response questions about definitions of and strategies for emotional connectedness. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Participants conceptualize emotional connectedness as having empathy and value, help and support, presence, and vulnerability. They also describe emotionally connected relationships as being characterized by mutuality and frequent contact. Participants identify current behavioral strategies for cultivating emotional connectedness, such as using technology, providing instrumental help or sending gifts via mail, and building quality time within their households. They also report challenges in maintaining these connections. Future research must contribute knowledge about effective interventions for essential healthcare workers in the aftermath of COVID-19. Specific recommendations for social work practitioners are also discussed.