COVID-19 and Lockdown, as Lived and Felt by University Students

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated unprecedented measures, including university closures.
• The HOUSE-ULisbon study surveyed first-year students at the University of Lisbon during the second confinement (March-May 2021).

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate gender-based differences in the experiences and emotional responses of first-year university students during the COVID-19 pandemic and confinement.
• To identify specific challenges and coping mechanisms employed by male and female students.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative and qualitative data collected via questionnaire from 976 first-year University of Lisbon students (69.5% female).
• Statistical analysis using SPSS v. 26 and qualitative analysis using MAXQDA 2020.

Main Results:

• Students reported physical and mental discomfort, with females experiencing higher anxiety and worries.
• Males showed a higher prevalence of online gaming, while females faced greater difficulties with leisure and family relationships.
• Both genders perceived social interaction as challenging during confinement.

Conclusions:

• Findings underscore the need for targeted psychological, material, and financial support for first-year university students.
• Post-pandemic impacts necessitate continued prioritization of health, education, and public policy measures for this demographic.
• Results inform health/education professionals and support evidence-based public policy development.