Impact of Covid-19 lockdown on the psychological wellbeing and academic performance of Psychology students of Makerere University. A case study of BIOP students

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between Covid-19 lockdown psychological wellbeing and academic performance among psychology students of Makerere University. The study was intending to achieve objectives: To examine the relationship between Covid-19 lockdown and psychological wellbeing, to ascertain the relationship between Covid-19 lockdown and academic performance and to determine the relationship between psychological wellbeing and academic performance. The study was using sample of 132 respondents who were adopted using sampling technique data was collected using self-administered questionnaires and later analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Scientists) version 20.0. The findings show that Covid-19 lockdown and psychological wellbeing are positively and significantly related (r=.089 at p=.000<0.01). furthermore, the findings show that Covid-19 lockdown and academic performance are positively and significantly related (r=.148 at p=.000<0.01). Additionally, the findings show that psychological wellbeing and academic performance are positively and insignificantly related (r=.190 at p=.000<0.01). The study findings recommended that governments need to put the appropriate measures in place to mitigate the mental health effects related to Covid-19. The study also recommended the need for clearly defined referral pathways that cater to MHPSS needs during this time. The study also recommended that, there is a need for interventions to support students in the post Covid-19 to adjust with their academics and better understand the online studies which has left many behind in terms of academic performance.