Psychological and Behavioral Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Children

Abstract

The global epidemiological trends led to the declaration of coronavirus (COVID-19) as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020. This necessitated the closure of schools, parks, and recreation and community facilities in most parts of the globe. As a result, there was a rapid shift to online education delivery, and even virtual school graduation ceremonies. Thus, children became part of the sudden behavioural changes needed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. These changes include social distancing, frequent handwashing and stay-at-home restrictions. Some families had to cancel planned vacations, and others were forced to go into isolation or quarantine as recommended by the public health policies and guidelines. This paper reviews the psychological and behavioural impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on school-age children.