Connecting electronically with friends to cope with isolation during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Given that friends serve as one of the most important sources of emotional support during stress, the current study examines whether connecting electronically with friends can help alleviate loneliness and emotional distress during the social isolation mandates of the COVID-19 pandemic. Relying on a cross-sectional electronic survey conducted with a sample of 18–70-year-old adults (n = 295), information about the frequency of and satisfaction with electronic friend contact methods were obtained. Participants of all ages reported greater than typical reliance on, and satisfaction with, video calls during the imposed isolation, although they (especially the younger generations) used texting and connecting via social media the most. More frequent overall use of communication technologies was associated with greater anxiety but unrelated to loneliness and depression. In contrast, greater overall satisfaction with electronic contact with friends was associated with lower levels of loneliness, anxiety and depressive symptoms, as hypothesized. Satisfaction was most protective among those living alone. The findings highlight the potential psychological benefits of connecting electronically with close others and suggest that connecting with friends offers a way to cope with imposed isolation as long as individuals are satisfied with their exchanges.