Beyond social distancing: A phenomenological study of Iranian housewives' lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in Tabriz

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting social distancing requirements dramatically changed daily life, with distinct effects on housewives due to their traditional family roles. This study examined how housewives experienced social distancing policies and their trust in government actions during the early stages of the pandemic. Using a phenomenological approach, we conducted virtual focus group interviews through social media with 12 married housewives in Tabriz. Participants were selected through snowball sampling, with 5–8 individuals per session for effective group management. We analyzed the WhatsApp interviews, conducted from mid to late April 2022, using the seven-step Claisie method. The findings revealed that socio-economic pressures from the pandemic increased household tensions, particularly through verbal and nonverbal conflicts. Key challenges included adapting to virtual family communication instead of face-to-face interaction, dealing with anxiety about pandemic uncertainties, managing children's education, coping with family members' job losses, handling reduced household income, and taking on additional unpaid work. Participants also expressed skepticism toward official statistics, news reports, and government statements about controlling the pandemic. Other significant issues included changes in recreational activities, modifications to social ceremonies, a sense of personal insecurity, and declining trust in institutions.