Perceptions of Lockdown Measures in Response to COVID-19 Among UK University Students: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Young individuals between 20 and 40 years of age have been reported to drive the spread of COVID-19. University students are likely part of this group. Perceptions, in comparison to personality traits, account for more variance in compliance to measures during the pandemic. Different personal and relational factors influence how individuals evaluate information and may shape how they perceive their surroundings. Using thematic analysis and saliency analysis, this study aims to understand how students perceive and experience lockdown, the management of the pandemic, and the implications of lockdown. As a result, data will allow for better comprehension of how these perceptions may translate to a health context and personal behaviors. Data drawn from semistructured interviews with 17 university students based in London revealed a strong disagreement with the government’s actions, questioning of lockdown measures, and participants’ reflective processes throughout lockdown. Important implications concerning the well-being of the public and policymakers’ efforts to manage the pandemicare discussed.