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Abstract

This article discusses a comparative case study of eight single mothers’ lockdown experiences during COVID-19 in Mongolia. The case study investigated single mothers’ experiences and the psychological impact of the lockdown. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight single mothers, four of whom were survivors of intimate partner violence. All interviews were carried out online. Thematic analysis identified patterns and themes regarding lockdown experiences. The four months (from late January to early May 2020) of lockdown had both positive and negative psychological consequences for these single mothers. For both survivor and non-survivor single mothers, uncertainty was the primary psychological state reported, followed by other adverse effects such as worry, anxiety, insecurity, and frustration. Lockdown and the government’s uncertain policies have added more workload on women. They have been looking after the children, household chores, and managing their paid workload. Their relationships (both official and family) have also been affected. An extra burden on women is the loss of income and employment because of the lockdown. Positive psychological outcomes were increased creativity, newly acquired life skills, community care, and a reminder of values.

Author Biography

Khongorzul Amarsanaa: Doctoral School of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary and Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.

József Rácz: Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary and Semmelweis University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Addictology, Budapest, Hungary.

Mónika Kovács: Institute of Intercultural Psychology and Education, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.

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