Perception and Experience of Urban Residents Regarding COVID-19 and Social Distancing: A Comparative Analysis between Bangladesh and Türkiye

ISLAM M., KURTKAPAN H., PARLAK F., ÖZBEK N. M.

GORTERIA TIJDSCHRIFT VOOR DE FLORISTIEK, cilt.65, sa.7, ss.45-64, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 65 Sayı: 7
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.61586/gmu4b
  • Dergi Adı: GORTERIA TIJDSCHRIFT VOOR DE FLORISTIEK
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CAB Abstracts
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.45-64
  • Marmara Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had many unexpected implications, particularly for urban residents worldwide. Their vulnerability depends on their perception, how they dealt with the coronavirus and socio-political, economic, and geographical backgrounds. This study aims to compare the perception and experiences of urban residents in Bangladesh and Türkiye regarding COVID-19 and social distancing, focusing on the impacts on their health, social life, consumption patterns, and their experiences about the role of media, religious institutions, political parties, and markets. Within the framework of this qualitative study, we interviewed 30 respondents from these countries, applying a snowball sampling technique. The results show that most respondents heard social distancing from social media, resulting in less preparation and adaptation against this pandemic. They also blamed social media for misinformation and disinformation, increasing their vulnerability during this challenging time. The results also show that their personal, familial, social, and professional lives were significantly affected by social distancing and associated factors such as socioeconomic conditions, health infrastructure, and the role of media, religious institutions, political parties, and markets. All these together negatively affected their physical and mental health, behavior, and consumption patterns.

Keywords: Perception, COVID-19, Social Distancing, Urban Areas, Qualitative Design