Family conflict and COVID ‐19: The toll of pandemic‐driven stressors

Objective This study examined pandemic‐incited conflict in the home to show how different types of stressors impacted family dynamics during a time of great social upheaval. Background Families faced unique circumstances while navigating the pandemic. The various stressors of the pandemic may have affected family dynamics, including the prevalence of conflict in the home. Methods Using national U.S. data collected in 2021, we investigated individual and household‐level risk factors associated with reports of serious household conflict ascribed to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Results Results showed that several demographic characteristics, along with pandemic‐driven stressors related to financial hardship, caregiving responsibilities, and the emotional toll of the pandemic were associated with increased odds of reporting serious conflict among family members. In particular, increased debt, caring for a sick or elderly relative, and negative emotions (anger, loneliness, and feeling less cared for) due to the pandemic were linked with increased odds of serious conflict. Conclusion Facing certain stressors appears to have put families at greater risk of conflict, further exemplifying the ways stressors may translate into relationships. Implications More studies are needed on how the pandemic affected family debt and its continuing impacts. To weather future crises, policymakers should increase support for families with caregiving responsibilities and for those with financial struggles.