Routines, Time Dedication and Habit Changes in Spanish Homes during the COVID-19 Lockdown. A Large Cross-Sectional...

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated widespread lockdowns and social distancing measures globally.
• These restrictions profoundly impacted household dynamics, routines, and time allocation for daily tasks.
• Understanding these habit changes is crucial for public health and social policy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the perceived habit changes in Spanish households during the COVID-19 lockdown.
• To analyze these changes in relation to socio-demographic characteristics and household composition.
• To identify specific groups disproportionately affected by confinement-induced habit alterations.

Main Methods:

• A national online survey was conducted in Spain between April 30 and June 22, 2020.
• Data collected included variables on time dedication, routine adherence, home leaving frequency, and habit changes.
• Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were employed to analyze associations (p < 0.05).

Main Results:

• Sixty percent of respondents maintained their routines; 33% attempted to establish new ones, particularly women, young individuals, and those with children.
• Adults aged 35-54, especially women with more cohabitants, focused intensively on domestic chores and caregiving.
• Younger adults (under 35) prioritized rest and leisure, while university students were more likely to telework.
• Leaving home for essentials like groceries was influenced by gender, age, education, and cohabiting with elders.

Conclusions:

• Confinement during COVID-19 led to significant habit and routine shifts in Spanish households.
• These changes were strongly associated with socio-demographic factors and household composition.
• Women, individuals with children, and adults aged 35-54 bore the greatest burden, particularly concerning domestic labor and care responsibilities.