Perceptions and Experiences of Young People during the Covid-19 Pandemic in Dhaka City: A Medical Anthropological Perspective

Abstract

This article aims to examine the perceptions and experiences of
young people during the Covid-19 pandemic in Dhaka City. With
this aim, primary data has been collected from youth of various
statuses, occupations, and social classes through informal
interviews, in-depth interviews, case studies, and observation.
Furthermore, articles, research reports, and books on the subject
have been used as secondary data sources. The research is
qualitative in nature. Based on the findings, this article argues
that young people’s beliefs about the coronavirus’s origins and
consequences are largely influenced by their socioeconomic
and cultural contexts. Even young people’s experiences and
reactions to government initiatives aimed at preventing and
curing Covid-19 disease are mostly determined by their realities.
Consequently, the effectiveness of the efforts also depends on
their personal, social, and cultural status. Although the effects of
Covid-19 differ by age, social isolation, loneliness, confinement,
family conflicts, and concerns about the future have exacerbated
the detrimental influence on young people, having far-reaching
negative social and psychological consequences. This article,
by thoroughly analyzing and presenting the effects of Covid-19
on the youth of Dhaka City, may assist in the implementation
of suitable Covid-19 prevention and control strategies by
advocating for the youth and enriching the literature of medical
anthropology.