Quality time in quarantine: Buffering effects of family time on COVID-19 outcomes

Objective: This study examined the impact of quality time spent with family in modifying the relationship between various negative home and social consequences of the pandemic and subsequent social and behavioral outcomes. Background: Adverse consequences related to economic, health, and social factors were brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. In other contexts, family protective factors and resiliency have been found to mitigate similar adverse circumstances. Method: This mixed-method study included participants across five states (N = 67). Quantitative methods included survey data on individual and family experiences related to work and education, home and social circumstances, and physical and emotional health. Qualitative measures included individual interviews to better understand familial experiences during the pandemic. Results: Relationships between negative home life experiences and consequences of the pandemic and subsequent negative outcomes were found to be altered as levels of quality time spent with family and children increased. These results were replicated through robust qualitative data, which told the stories of families using quality time to support positive outcomes. Conclusion: Findings suggest that quality time spent with family can be a point of emphasis for mitigating adverse social and health outcomes. Implications: Quality time may serve as a low-cost, accessible relational strategy that can be intentionally emphasized in prevention, intervention, and public health messaging to strengthen family resilience during periods of prolonged adversity.