Psychologist on COVID Effects
Crisis changes media use [17.04.20]
Picture: Clipdealer
Series: The Corona pandemic has already had drastic consequences: The educational sector, the economy, the working world in general, but also human interaction will probably be different after the crisis than before. In order to be able to deal with this in a meaningful way, scientific facts are more important than ever, both in the crisis itself and for the time after it. Experts from the University of Hohenheim will provide information on various aspects of the coronavirus crisis and its consequences from their respective specialist perspectives.
Since the introduction of the ban on contact, the use of Internet services has increased considerably. They not only offer a welcome pastime with online games and videos, but also constant access to information.
A particularly positive development: "It is already becoming apparent that greater attention is again being paid to the reliability of the sources," explained Prof. Dr. Trepte. Journalism is setting user records. In particular, the online services of public television stations and newspapers that place value on quality journalism are enjoying increasing access rates.
Social media allows new social contacts to be made
Above all, however, social media is also one of the most important aids when it comes to staying in contact with others and exchanging ideas. Initiatives are being set up everywhere in which people are networking with each other to organize help for others. For example, younger people are doing the shopping for older people or taking their dogs for a walk. Students can get their materials at home and exchange ideas with their teachers.
Another trend: people are arranging to make music together - each on his or her own balcony. "This quality is new. There is only one thing the social media cannot do: replace physical proximity to other people," emphasized Prof. Dr. Trepte.
Older people and young people in particular are affected by loneliness
In the debate about possible isolation, Prof. Dr. Sabine Trepte distinguishes between loneliness and social isolation: While loneliness describes a longer-lasting subjective feeling of being excluded from social groups, social isolation refers mainly to the physical separation from other people.
Those who did not suffer from loneliness before the coronavirus crisis will not do so even in view of the contact ban and distance rule. "These people already have a stable network of relationships, family, friends, and acquaintances that now offers them the necessary social support and emotional relief."
On the other hand, the most at risk are those over 80 years of age, as well as young people between the ages of 15 and 18, who even without a crisis are more likely to experience feelings of loneliness than other age groups and who miss regular meetings with their friends in particular. But also all others who were already at risk before the coronavirus crisis need support.
This includes people who are suffering from mental or physical diseases or are disabled, as well as economically and socially disadvantaged people. In addition to material resources, they often lack the psychological resources to seek help.
The fight against loneliness is a challenge for everyone
A general altruistic attitude could help. "If each individual seeks only one endangered person in his or her personal environment, whom they look out for and with whom they keep contact - with the necessary distance, of course - then a lot has already been gained," said Prof. Dr. Trepte.
This can be a call to your older neighbor. "Often it is enough to ask how she is doing, listen to the worries and needs that may be present, talk about everyday topics, and maybe even take care of a few errands."
Text: Stuhlemmer
