Study warns of increased tensions as rules relaxed
Changes to lockdown rules could lead to a “wide disparity” in how the public follows coronavirus social distancing advice, according to a new report from psychologists at the University of Bath.
A number of changes to reopen the economy, which became effective from Saturday, July 4, include social distancing being relaxed from staying two metres apart to “one-metre plus”, new rules on outdoor meetings and the reopening of some businesses like pubs, bars and hotels.
In a paper published in the British Journal of Social Psychology, the Bath-based researchers warn of “emerging tensions” that will arise between groups who interpret messages about social distancing in different ways.
In our day-to-day lives this could mean people feeling cut off from others, criticised or shamed for their behaviour – for following the changed guidelines differently.
The report suggests in March, strict lockdown guidelines meant most people followed the rules and health advice, including isolation and distancing.
With lockdown measures easing and policies becoming more ambiguous, researchers believe many social situations need to be negotiated on an “interpersonal level”.
The report believes media coverage of packed beaches has led to some people questioning other people’s sense of judgement and to brand them so-called “Covidiots.”
Researchers found this was a sign of mixed messaging surrounding the relaxation of lockdown, with different interpretations by individuals.
They warn morally blaming individuals for the impact of their behaviour on the pandemic – as evidenced in the recent threat to close beaches – “may detract from a much-needed discussion over whether guidelines are fit for purpose and their effect on infection rates.”
The report also argues people face moral challenges on strict distancing or isolation – and feel under pressure to socialise without wanting to appear rude or overdramatic.
The researchers suggest that how individuals continue to differently interpret public health messages about Covid-19 will lead to increased tensions between groups moving further into summer.
Annayah Prosser, lead researcher from the Department of Psychology at the University of Bath,said: “Strict lockdown guidelines meant that until recently everyone was adhering to the same mitigating practices such as isolation and distancing.
“However, now that lockdown is easing, and policy is becoming more ambiguous, many practices now need to be negotiated on an interpersonal level.
“For example, at the height of lockdown you didn’t need to decline an invitation to a social gathering, because it was technically against the law.
“Now, if you decline an invitation, you could be perceived as rude, or as a ‘do-gooder’ who thinks they’re better than everyone else.”
The report outlines how this may cause problems for people who want to continue to maintain strict practices over time and may increasingly face criticism from others who behave differently.
Annayah Prosser added: “Our main recommendation for individuals is to avoid portraying others as morally ‘good’ or ‘bad’ for their actions.
“People may have complex reasons for their behaviour, that may not be visible on sight or through a short social media post.
“These choices are tough and simplifying behaviour as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ without knowing the full story could lead to increased tensions and polarisation at a time when communities need to work together constructively to address the crisis.”