Abstract:

This study aims to explore the lived experiences of Greek emerging adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the perceived psychoemotional and social impact, and their outlook on the future. We used a qualitative longitudinal approach that involved two timeframes: March 2020 and June 2021. Thirty-four participants (M= 21.14 years old) initially answered online open-ended questions, and in-depth individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with six of them. Thematic Analysis revealed two overarching themes: “emotional shifts” and “transitioning to adulthood”. Participants conveyed a variety of emotions including sadness, and nostalgia, which ultimately led to feelings of loneliness due to their inability to connect with loved ones or because of being separated from them. Throughout both timeframes, participants reported experiencing fear, anxiety, and uncertainty related to the possibility of contracting the virus or unintentionally spreading it to their loved ones. However, they also acknowledged experiencing positive changes during the first lockdown, such as personal growth, new perspectives, and a deeper life appreciation, translated into “relational clearings” during the second lockdown. Finally, they also understood their increased responsibility for complying with the restrictions, and they formulated practical plans for the future reflecting a “here-and-now” mindset. Our findings are discussed regarding the existing literature.