For better or worse: Relationship change in Thailand during COVID-19

ObjectiveNovel infectious diseases have the potential to both strengthen or weaken interpersonal relationships within a society. In a collectivist setting such as Thailand amplification of relationships may be particularly marked, but may be associated with individual factors, including personal values and perceived control over the virus. MethodsA national on-street survey in Thailand (April 2020, N = 1,000), collected data from five regions across the country (response rate 82.6%). Participants reported demographics, anxiety, perceived control, and personal values of security and universalism, and indicated changes, from negative to positive, across four relationship types (relationship partners, family, friendships and neighbourhood). ResultsWhile relationship changes were small overall, there was an improvement in close relations (partners, family members) but not amongst friends and neighbours. Respondents who were married without children recorded less enhancement of partnerships, friendships and neighbourhood relations. Those with less perceived control over the infection reported relationship decline, while single people reported fewer positive changes in their partnership or family relations. Multiple regression analyses demonstrated the prioritisation of security was associated with a decline in each of the relationships, while universalism was positively associated with change in the family, in friendships and neighbourly relations. ConclusionsPersonal values and marital status may impact on relationship functioning during a national health crisis. These issues should be considered by clinicians and health practitioners when trying to assist those struggling with interpersonal relations during a pandemic.

Automated summary

This study found that the novel infectious disease in Thailand has a certain impact on interpersonal relationships. Married individuals without children had fewer improvements in partner, friendship, and neighbor relationships. Those with lower perceived control over the infection reported declines in relationships, while single individuals reported fewer positive changes in partnership or family relations. The prioritization of security was associated with relationship decline, while the value of universalism was associated with positive changes in family, friendship, and neighborly relations.