AN INVESTIGATION OF SOCIAL ISOLATION AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH MENTAL HEALTH AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: EVIDENCE FROM COVID-19 AND POST COVID-19 PERIODS

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic was not only a global health crisis but also a period of profound psychological and social challenges. Lock down restrictions and prolonged isolation disrupted everyday life, limited social interaction, and potentially intensified difficulties within domestic relationships. These circumstances raised important concerns about mental health, domestic violence, and the lasting effects of pandemic on psychological well-begin. This research study aimed to examine the relationship between isolation and mental health, investigate the association between isolation and domestic violence, explore mental health concerns persisting in the post COVID-19 period. A quantitative research approach was employed, using survey method. Pearson’s correlation analysis was conducted to assess the relationship between the study variables. The finding revealed significant positive correlations between isolation and mental health (r=.250, p= .001) and between isolation and domestic violence (r=.250, p=.004). A further positive correlation was identified in the post COVID-19 analysis (r=.31, p=.001). These findings highlight the interconnected nature of isolation, psychological well-being, and domestic relationships during and after the pandemic. The study underscores the improving access of domestic violence services and recognising the potential long-term consequences of pandemic-related isolation.