Understanding Parenting Stress and Loneliness during COVID-19
Garcia, A. S., Lavender-Stott, E. S., Carotta, C. L., Liu, H.-L. (Stella), Nguyen, V. O., & Timm-Davis, N. (2024). Loneliness, Parenting Stress, and the Buffering Effect of Social Connectedness. The Family Journal, 33(1), 93-103. https://doi.org/10.1177/10664807241251433
The COVID-19 pandemic changed daily life for everyone, but parents faced unique challenges. School closures, lack of childcare, and isolation led to increased stress. This study examined how loneliness and social connectedness influenced parenting stress during the pandemic. The findings revealed that parents who felt lonelier experienced higher stress, while those who felt socially connected reported lower stress levels. Most importantly, feeling connected to others helped reduce the negative effects of loneliness on parenting stress.
Researchers surveyed 362 parents in the U.S. through an online questionnaire in July 2020. Parents answered questions about their levels of loneliness, social connectedness, and parenting stress. The researchers then analyzed how these factors were related.
Researchers found that parents who felt lonelier experienced higher levels of parenting stress. However, those with a keen sense of social connectedness like having meaningful relationships and support reported lower stress levels. When parents had a sense of belonging, the harmful effects of loneliness on stress were less severe. Also, social connectedness helped buffer the negative effects of loneliness, showing that relationships outside of the immediate family can play a crucial role in reducing parental stress. Surprisingly, single parents experienced lower stress than partnered parents, possibly because they had stronger social networks beyond their romantic relationships.
Parenting is challenging, and the pandemic intensified stress for many families. This study shows that having strong social connections can help reduce parenting stress, even in challenging times. Community programs, counseling services, and informal support networks can play a vital role in helping parents feel connected and supported. Encouraging parents to build and maintain relationships beyond their household—such as friendships, community groups, or online support networks—can improve their well-being and, in turn, benefit their children. By understanding the power of social connectedness, we can help parents navigate challenges and create a healthier, more supportive environment for families.