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Paradoxical Impacts of Social Relationship on Well-Being During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Author

Listed:
  • Seojin Stacey Lee

    (Seoul National University)

  • Yerin Shim

    (Chungnam National University)

  • Jongan Choi

    (Kangwon National University)

  • Incheol Choi

    (Seoul National University
    Seoul National University)

Abstract

Social interaction is an important source of psychological and physical well-being during normal times. However, following the COVID-19 outbreak, which spreads rapidly from person to person, social interaction poses a fatal threat to one’s health and life. Therefore, several countries including South Korea implemented an intense social distancing mandate to prevent the spread of the virus. During these unique times of pandemic, the current research investigated whether and how an individual’s well-being varies as a function of their interaction with various relationship partners using experience sampling data (Study 1) and online longitudinal data (Study 2). The results indicated that being alone was more detrimental to well-being during the pandemic than before it. Specifically, interaction with close relationship partners (e.g., romantic partner, spouse, or friend) was positively related to well-being, whereas interaction with formal relationship partners (e.g., coworker, boss) was negatively linked to momentary well-being during the pandemic. Furthermore, our study showed that the association between social supports from close relationships and well-being was temporally strengthened during COVID-19 pandemic. In sum, the benefits of close relationships on well-being were stronger during the COVID-19 pandemic than before it.

Suggested Citation

  • Seojin Stacey Lee & Yerin Shim & Jongan Choi & Incheol Choi, 2023. "Paradoxical Impacts of Social Relationship on Well-Being During the COVID-19 Pandemic," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 24(2), pages 745-767, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jhappi:v:24:y:2023:i:2:d:10.1007_s10902-022-00614-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s10902-022-00614-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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