What can children’s drawing tell us about the impact of coronavirus?

Staffordshire University is urging families to take part in a study which aims to assess the impacts of coronavirus on children.

One of the children's drawings submitted for the study

“The current coronavirus situation presents a unique opportunity to discover the diverse characteristics and consequences of a pandemic upon children, be that fear of loss or death, isolation from friends or disruption to schoolwork and normal lives.”

Dr Richard Jolley,

The study of children’s drawing is open to participants aged 4 – 14 in all parts of the UK and can be carried out entirely in the home. Children are simply asked to draw a picture about their life since coronavirus struck.

A picture is then taken of the drawing and, with help and permission from a parent, who is asked to complete some basic demographic and situational questions, this is uploaded on a dedicated and secure website for the project.

The project is led Dr Richard Jolley and colleagues in Staffordshire University psychology department who will be examining the children's drawings.

Dr Jolley explained: “The current coronavirus situation presents a unique opportunity to discover the diverse characteristics and consequences of a pandemic upon children, be that fear of loss or death, isolation from friends or disruption to schoolwork and normal lives.

“We are also interested in how these themes may vary between age and gender of the child, but also due to other factors outside and inside the home. For instance, we wish to know whether the themes are related to which country the child lives in, if they live in a rural or urban environment and if either parent is a key worker.”

Schools and organisations through the UK have already been contacted about the project – but with school holidays imminent, the research team are appealing directly to families to take part.

Dr Sarah Rose added: “Generally drawings are something children and young people like to do and they can capture a lot about people’s experiences and feelings. Sometimes children are unable to find the words to express how they feel but, as the saying goes, ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’.

“Given that these are unprecedented times, this is an important study which could help us to understand the impacts of children living through the pandemic for years to come.”

For further information on the study, please email research@coviddrawings.org.uk

 

 

Latest news


Naser Rashid in his graduation cap and gown

People person finds his calling

A University of Staffordshire graduate is making positive changes to people’s lives after qualifying as an ODP

Hand holding a phone

Beacon app to form part of trial on student wellbeing

An app used by University of Staffordshire students is to form part of a trial on the impact of wellbeing interventions.

Stacie Chorlton-Lythgoe in her graduation cap and gown

Graduate aims to give children a sporting chance

A mum-of-three is using her passion for sport to help children lead happier and healthier lives

in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021