A side-effect of pandemic response measures has been the impact on our mental health. But memory problems are a natural response to the environments created by the lockdowns.
The lockdown of Accra at the peak of the pandemic was poorly received.
Photo by Delali Adogla-Bessa
Ghanaian authorities could elicit more cooperation from citizens in governing the cities by creating conditions that give the majority a chance at a decent life
A social scientist argues that in the absence of strong government action, people took it upon themselves to work out conduct to stem the spread of virus.
With many more months of lockdowns, mask mandates and quarantining in our futures, the government needs to get its messaging just right and we all need to manage our expectations appropriately.
We’ve learned much more about the novel coronavirus over the last few months, including that most spreading events occur inddoors.
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As the coronavirus pandemic continues, and the colder weather approaches, new mathematical models are needed to study changing social behaviours and indoor spaces.
It’s easy to judge people who escape from quarantine as not doing their bit. But if we use some basic principles from behavioural science, we might stop people wanting to escape in the first place.
The government has become an easy scapegoat as the pandemic has worsened. While blame can alleviate stress, grief and guilt, it can also be counterproductive if people trust less in their leaders.
Director of Health Programs, BehaviourWorks Australia; Lead, Monash-McMaster Social Systems Evidence Collaboration, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University