“Mask saves lives”: the social representations of the covid-19 pandemic in drawings by children from Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

Although children, like adults, had their social relationships and routines altered by the pandemic and are key social actors to understand the changes caused by this worldwide sanitary crisis, building their own representations and narratives, few studies on the topic focus on children. To analyze children’s perception about the covid-19 pandemic, we interviewed 20 children between 8-10 years old, living in the city of Rio de Janeiro, by means of digital platforms and the commented drawing technique. We mainly analyzed the drawings and narratives associated with the children themselves, by the following categories of analysis: routine, feelings during the pandemic, representation of the virus, and new habits. The children generally drew the stages of their daily lives, including playing, the use of electronics and online classes, as well as the sanitary measures used in their family surroundings and their feelings. Children show caution regarding the pandemic, indicating their awareness on the importance of practicing social distancing, using a mask and maintaining good personal hygiene to combat the covid-19, but they also showed concern, fear and even anger at the virus.