Examining Nursing Students’ Experiences During COVID-19 Through a Psychosocial Development Lens

Abstract

Background and Purpose:The purpose of this qualitative study was to evaluate experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic on freshman and sophomore residential nursing students in relation to personal development. Findings are examined through the lens of Chickering’s seven vectors of psychosocial development to better understand the implications of nursing students’ challenges during COVID-19.Methods:A convenience sample of residential nursing students completed surveys eliciting narrative descriptions of the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on their lives while in college.Results:Five main themes were identified as personal consequences of the pandemic: loss of connection with peers and instructors, loss of focus, loss of motivation, physical isolation, and emotional isolation. Findings were discussed through the lens of Chickering’s seven vectors of psychosocial development to better understand the implications of students’ COVID experiences.Implications for Practice:The results of the study suggest that students may have experienced obstacles from the effects of COVID-19, which may affect their psychosocial and identity development. An understanding of the personal consequences of COVID-19 on residential nursing students may assist faculty and administrators as they develop opportunities for social interactions that serve as a foundation for psychosocial development.