Exploring Youth Behavior and Mental Health: A Psychological and Sociological Analysis During the Early COVID-19 Pandemic

Résumé

The COVID-19 pandemic is a global crisis that has significantly affected healthcare systems, social structures, and individual well-being. This study explores how extreme behavioral shifts (enantiodromia) and passive coping strategies, such as withdrawal and avoidance, have emerged among youth in response to pandemic-induced stress and anxiety. These coping mechanisms can negatively impact psychosocial well-being, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and social strain, further exacerbating the societal challenges posed by the pandemic. The study aims to contribute to the broader understanding of how youth coping behaviors may either alleviate or intensify the effects of COVID-19 within communities and the potential long-term consequences of these patterns. A qualitative phenomenological research design was utilized to explore participants' lived experiences. Data collection methods included interviews, transect walk observations, and personal surveillance, providing a comprehensive understanding of youth engagement with the pandemic in real-life contexts.