The mental well-being of children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review of qualitative literature

Abstract

COVID-19 has led to significant isolation resulting in a rise in educational inequity and mental illness among youth. A systematic literature review of qualitative studies was conducted adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, to describe the mental wellbeing of children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. The protocol has been registered in the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Three Electronic databases were searched for original, qualitative, peer-reviewed, full text, English journal articles published from December 2019- to May 2020, conducted among children and their parents. We extracted the results that describe the psychological impact on children and their parents amidst COVID-19. Thirteen studies were included in the final review. Four major themes (1. Negative and maladaptive behavior 2. Social and psychological disruption 3. Emotion regulation 4. Value of family time) were identified through Inductive Thematic Synthesis. Although children regulate their emotions effectively, most of the children seem to experience maladaptive behaviors which may have a devastating effect on their development. Health care professionals, caregivers, school officials, and social workers should address these aspects of childcare during a pandemic and in the post-pandemic period.