Social Vulnerability to COVID-19: Impacts of Technology Adoption and Information Behavior

The book explores the impact of the pandemic in China and the USA and presents a research agenda for ICT adoption in the era of COVID-19, focusing on socially vulnerable populations. It addresses the challenges and perceptions of technologies, the information divide, and the impacts of specific technologies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2024
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The global COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on societies worldwide, exposing socially vulnerable populations to unprecedented challenges. One of the most significant challenges faced during this crisis was the use, access, and adoption of technological resources. To gain a better understanding of how socially vulnerable populations managed the pandemic and adapted to the new normal, it is essential for researchers and practitioners to identify the challenges and understand the perceptions of technologies. This edited volume addresses the impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic and the adoption of technologies among socially vulnerable populations in the world. It explores the information divide faced by these groups, the dimensions of vulnerabilities, and the impacts of specific technologies.

The pandemic has highlighted the importance of access to information and communication technologies (ICT) in ensuring social inclusion and equity. However, many socially vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, COVID-19 patients, and marginalized groups, face significant barriers to accessing and using ICT. These barriers include lack of access to devices, internet connectivity, and digital literacy skills. Additionally, social stigma and discrimination can further exacerbate these challenges, making it difficult for socially vulnerable populations to fully participate in the digital world.

To address these challenges, there is a need for a research agenda that focuses on the use, access, and adoption of ICT in the era of COVID-19. This agenda should include research on the impact of the pandemic on the use of ICT, the development of new technologies that can address the challenges faced by socially vulnerable populations, and the evaluation of the effectiveness of these technologies in improving their lives.

One of the key challenges facing socially vulnerable populations is the digital divide. The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to ICT and those who do not. This gap is particularly pronounced in developing countries, where access to ICT is limited by factors such as poverty, lack of infrastructure, and political instability. The pandemic has exacerbated this gap, as many schools and workplaces have shifted to online platforms, making it difficult for socially vulnerable populations to access education and employment opportunities.

To address the digital divide, there is a need for government policies and initiatives that promote access to ICT. This can include providing subsidies for devices and internet connectivity, investing in infrastructure development, and providing training programs to improve digital literacy skills. Additionally, social organizations and community-based initiatives can play a vital role in bridging the digital divide by providing access to devices and internet connectivity to those who cannot afford them.

Another challenge facing socially vulnerable populations is the impact of COVID-19 on their mental health. The pandemic has led to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and stress, which can have a significant impact on their physical and mental health. Social isolation and loneliness have also been exacerbated by the pandemic, making it difficult for socially vulnerable populations to connect with others and seek support.

To address these mental health challenges, there is a need for research on the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and the development of new interventions that can help socially vulnerable populations cope with the stress and anxiety associated with the pandemic. This can include telehealth services, mental health counseling, and online support groups.

In addition to the impact of the pandemic on mental health, there is also a need for research on the impact of COVID-19 on the use of ICT. The pandemic has led to a significant increase in the use of digital technologies, including social media, video conferencing, and online shopping. However, there is also a risk that the use of these technologies can have negative impacts on mental health, such as addiction, cyberbullying, and online harassment.

To address these risks, there is a need for research on the impact of digital technologies on mental health and the development of new interventions that can help socially vulnerable populations manage their use of these technologies. This can include the development of digital literacy programs, the implementation of parental controls, and the promotion of healthy digital habits.

Another challenge facing socially vulnerable populations is the impact of COVID-19 on their physical health. The pandemic has led to increased rates of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illness, which can have a significant impact on their quality of life. Social isolation and loneliness have also been linked to poor physical health, making it difficult for socially vulnerable populations to access healthcare and support services.

To address these physical health challenges, there is a need for research on the impact of COVID-19 on physical health and the development of new interventions that can help socially vulnerable populations manage their health. This can include the development of telehealth services, the implementation of public health measures, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

In conclusion, the global COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on societies worldwide, exposing socially vulnerable populations to unprecedented challenges. To address these challenges, there is a need for a research agenda that focuses on the use, access, and adoption of ICT in the era of COVID-19. This agenda should include research on the impact of the pandemic on the use of ICT, the development of new technologies that can address the challenges faced by socially vulnerable populations, and the evaluation of the effectiveness of these technologies in improving their lives. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable digital world for all.

Dimension: 240 x 168 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031068997
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023