Covid-19-Caused Changes in Psychosocial Functioning Among University Students: A Disruption and Opportunity

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused numerous changes, both on a global level and in the lives of every individual, particularly affecting university students. This paper examines how students perceived the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their lives. Fifty-one university students participated in the research. Data were collected via an online questionnaire and analyzed using thematic analysis. Two primary themes with subthemes emerged from the analysis: theme Positive Changes (including subthemes Increased Awareness of Family Values; Idling without Remorse; Restarting Neglected Activities; Practical and Mental Self-Improvement) and theme Negative Changes (including subthemes Restricted Movement and Freedom; Diminished Opportunities for In-Person Social Engagement; Online Class-Related Boredom; Declining Interest in Studying; Empty Days). The obtained data indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic was perceived as significantly disrupting students' routines and social interactions while also providing room for personal development as an opportunity to function more optimally in different life domains. Based on these findings, the paper offers recommendations for supporting students in overcoming difficulties possibly caused by pandemics or events necessitating the transition to remote learning.