Household coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from Tunisia using a zero-inflated beta regression approach

This paper aimed to assess the differences in the adoption of coping strategies by Tunisian households during the COVID-19 pandemic. We calculated a coping strategy index that considered income-generating and expense-minimizing strategies used by households during the initial months. The effects of several variables, interpreted as determinants, on households’ ability to adapt to social distancing measures and the economic slowdown were studied using a zero-inflated beta regression model. Our findings indicate that households facing economic hardships were more likely to use coping strategies. Social support and household size had minimal effects. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings but revealed a nuanced relationship between job loss, social support, and coping strategies. Food market issues consistently drove coping, especially among lower-income households, while job loss effects varied by context. This study offers insights into household resilience during crises, highlighting the role of informal support networks and social support policies.