Adolescent technology-use and creative activities during COVID-19: A qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Education

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges to adolescent development and engagement.
• Creative adolescents, in particular, faced unique disruptions to their activities and social interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on creative adolescents' engagement with creative activities.
• To explore how these adolescents utilized technology as a coping mechanism during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing phenomenology with constructivist and transformative paradigms.
• Five focus groups (25 creative adolescents from the US Midwest) conducted via Zoom.
• Semi-structured interviews analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 had both positive and negative effects on creative adolescent engagement.
• Adolescents experienced shifts in emotions and motivation related to their creative pursuits.
• Virtual creative engagement and technology use for connection, expression, and personal needs significantly increased.

Conclusions:

• Creative adolescents adapted to pandemic challenges by leveraging digital technology.
• Technology facilitated virtual creative expression, social connection, and personal growth.
• Findings highlight the resilience and adaptability of creative youth in crisis.