Difficulties in the functioning of "emerging adult" university students in Poland during the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify the predominant difficulties in the functioning of "emerging adults" in Poland during the Covid-19 and to determine whether the pandemic has had an impact on reconciling one’s education with other commitments. In addition, an attempt was made to answer the question about the association between changes in leisure time and difficulties in studying and about its affect the life satisfaction of students. 433 students (18-29), were examined via original questionnaire and the Life Satisfaction scale.

The results of the analyses show that shifting education to a virtual learning environment creates difficulties when it comes to paying attention to the transmitted content, online interaction, and carrying out tasks assigned by lecturers. Forced isolation has challenged students’ skills regarding leisure time management. The overall increase in difficulties would suggest a decrease in life satisfaction amongst the respondents and an increase in negative emotions.