The determinants of psycho-social youth’s functioning in youth educational centres during Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Problems, purpose, and methods: this paper presents the results of quantitative study of 202 youths, girls and boys, who have been staying in youth educational centers (YEC). The goal of the research, based on the on-line questionnaire, was not only to investigate the main factors connected with psycho-social youths’ functioning during the Covid-19 pandemic, but also to indicate correlation between them as well. These institutions implement the activities for youths not only in the institutional environment, but also among the local community, thus creating numerous opportunities for them to build interpersonal relationships, e.g. with peers from public schools. Covid-19 pandemic has made pupils stay away from their families and friends, besides, the social activities and pupils’ interactions have been inhibited. Results and conclusions: The analysis revealed a negative impact of social isolation on youths’ wellbeing and psycho-social attitude. Findings also suggest that receiving support from pedagogical staff is crucial.