Exploring the Situation of the Family in South Africa During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic

This chapter explores the situation of the family in South Africa during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and nationwide lockdown. It uses an exploratory methodology to unearth and examine some of the forces which had impacted on the family during the pandemic. To do this, we analyze secondary data sources to gain insights into the situation of the family and to report on, among other things, its experiences, challenges, and coping strategies. In this exploration, we seek to highlight the overall plight of the family during this global health crisis, as the world prepares for a post COVID-19 world. To decipher the living circumstances of the family during COVID-19, this chapter pays close attention to the changes and effects wrought by the deadly virus on the family, particularly in the following key areas: economic well-being and work/income, education and schooling, family interaction typified by social distancing, and isolation and finally the state of women. The discussion concludes with some reflections from a social work vantage point, on major changes that have transpired since the outbreak of COVID-19, and how the pandemic has progressed in South Africa while pondering on the family’s future prospects.