Thesis Format
Monograph
Degree
Master of Arts
Program
Education
Supervisor
Stewart, Shannon
Abstract
Strong peer relationships are an essential component of a healthy, happy, and long lifetime. The literature suggests peer relationships are primarily centred around reciprocity and turn-taking in early childhood, whereas in later childhood, peer relationships are based on social support and intimacy. Given that there is little understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on peer relationships, this study explored the effects of the COVID waves on peer relationships while controlling for age, sex, and income. Considering the limited literature available, it was hypothesized that there would be an overall decline in peer relationship difficulties across the waves, with older children and adolescents, males, and those from the lowest income, experiencing the most difficulties. Chi-square tests of independence and logistic regression analysis was performed. Overall, as expected, there were significantly fewer peer relationship difficulties during COVID-19, compared to the pre-pandemic period. Despite the general decline of peer issues, individuals between the ages of 8-18, particularly males, were more likely to experience peer relationship difficulties compared to those 4-7 years. Additionally, children from the lowest income households experienced greater peer relationship difficulties during COVID-19 when compared to those from the highest income households. The findings from this study demonstrate the nuanced changes in social behaviours due to the ongoing pandemic for children and youth and highlight those youth who are most in need of social and behavioural interventions.
Summary for Lay Audience
The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and youth have been widespread and robust. While the majority of research in the field to date has focused on the psychological impacts, less is known about how the restrictions and long periods of school closures affected social relationships. The current study explored the differences in peer relationships before and during the pandemic among individuals in three age groups (4-7 years, 8-11 years, and 12-18 years). Clinically referred children and youth who were accessing mental health services across Ontario were assessed by professionals and their information was collected in order to identify areas of functioning, needs, risks, and resilience. Our findings revealed that for clinically referred children and youth, peer relationship difficulties declined during the pandemic, compared to pre-pandemic rates. Young female children were least likely to experience challenges with their peers, as well as those in higher income households. These findings can help inform how parents, school personnel, and mental health professionals identify those most at-risk for social difficulties. A deeper understanding of the unique experiences of COVID-19 for individuals in different contexts will be essential for providing effective social and behavioural interventions.
Recommended Citation
Manis, Jordyn, "A Snapshot of Peer Relationships in Children and Youth: Pre- Versus During COVID-19" (2024). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 10157.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/10157