Psychosocial impact of COVID-19 in rising generation: An observational study from India

Abstract

Background : Direct and indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant change in the lives of children and adolescents. Changes in psychosocial behavior are one of them and are least noticed by parents and caregivers. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the mental and behavioral changes in children and adolescents of India before March 2020 and during the COVID-19 pandemic by Pediatric Symptom Checklist -17 (PSC-17). Patients and Methods : A cross-sectional observational study was conducted through an online questionnaire-based survey on children and adolescents of age group (5 -17 years) from 1st July to 15th July 2021 in India. Data were collected from parents regarding socio-demographic status, the behavior of study participants before and during the pandemic, and their perspective for the same. For statistical analysis chi-square test and the Mcnemar test was used. Results : Overall, 17.14% (77) of the study population scored positive during the covid pandemic on the total PSC-17 score. Participants residing in a metropolitan city, having nuclear family, and having no siblings were affected more as compared to others. The proportion of positive I scores (≥5), A score (≥7), E score (≥7) &total score (≥15) before and during COVID-19 were statistically significant among children. Conclusion: The psychological