A new research project between the Carleton University Sprott School of Business and Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario Division is underway to better understand the social and human costs of physical distancing, remote work, isolation and other factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The research project, titled Work, Family, and Life During the COVID-19 Pandemic, is collecting data from 60-80 adults across Ontario who have both work and caregiving responsibilities. Through an intake survey, followed by weekly phone interviews, researchers will examine their challenges, stressors and coping strategies throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Physical distancing measures put in place to slow the spread of COVID-19 are creating new pressures and challenges for many Canadians, particularly those who are faced with working remotely while providing care to their children and dependents such as elderly parents. This research will provide preliminary measurement of these costs and potential opportunities for mitigation in the future.
Research data will be cross-referenced with a timeline of events related to the pandemic, such as announcements from federal, provincial and municipal governments and public health officials, as well as the implementation of physical distancing and other measures, to evaluate how new and ongoing developments impact caregivers.
Read more on this new research partnership between Carleton University and CMHA Ontario