Abstract:

Whilst the pandemic seems like a health problem, it has caused many problems that deepen multidimensional socioeconomic effects. Although states have taken various measures economically, it has been observed that some individuals and families are more affected by the consequences of the pandemic than other groups due to the loss of jobs/income. This study was conducted to explore the difficulties faced by individuals who had lost their jobs/income during the pandemic, the roles and responsibilities among family members, individuals' coping practices and access to rights. A phenomenological approach was adopted in this study, which was conducted with the qualitative research method. The research subjects were reached within the framework of purposive and snowball sampling. In this context, 24 subjects (16 men, eight women) were conducted in-depth interviews through semi-structured forms. The interviews were analysed thematically with the Nvivo 12 qualitative data analysis program with five themes in parallel with the research question. As a result, the economic difficulties caused by the pandemic have triggered psychological and social difficulties, causing them to multiply. In addition, the pandemic has reinforced and deepened gender inequalities. On the other hand, inadequacy, injustice, and lack of control were at the forefront in economic regulations, protective measures, and evaluations about the future. Interventions to be carried out to protect individuals who have lost jobs/income in the pandemic in terms of biopsychosocial and economic aspects should be done in a rights-based way and by ensuring gender equality.

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