Purpose - Why are we doing this research study? COVID-19, the first major pandemic of our generation spreading worldwide, has disrupted daily life for people living in the affected areas. Given that the impact of COVID-19 is universal, regardless of culture, religion, lifestyle, and race, there is an urgent need to conduct a multiple country comparison study to identify the psychological responses and coping strategies employed by individuals and communities in different countries during this outbreak. This study will examine the psychological responses and coping strategies, including how people maintain physical activity during the pandemic among individuals from 14 countries. The results will provide important data to help combat future global pandemic(s).

Procedures - What do I need to do? You are asked to complete an online anonymous survey (survey link) that takes about 15 minutes to complete. By completing the survey, you are agreeing to participate in the study.

Participation is voluntary - Participation in this study is voluntary. Refusal to participate, or discontinuing participation at any time, will involve no penalty or loss of benefits to which you, the participant, are otherwise entitled. It is your choice to be in this study. You may decide to stop being in this study at any time. However, once you have completed and submitted the survey, you cannot withdraw from the study. 

What are possible risks / discomforts? We believe that there is little chance that bad things will happen because of your participation in this study. It is possible you will feel psychological and emotional distress when asking about COVID-19 pandemic. Such likelihood is minimal and no more than the risk you will experience in your everyday life. 

What are potential benefits? While you may not receive any direct benefits, you will have a major role in contributing the development of effective strategies to respond to future global disease pandemic.

How will my information be kept private? Any information collected in this study will be stored on secure servers at the National University of Ireland, Galway. Only necessary individuals on our research team will be able to view this information.

Is there any payment / compensation for participation? You will not be paid for participating in this research study.

What happens at the end of the study? At the end of the study, the information or data will be analysed and published in peer-reviewed journals. No individual will be identified in the publications. 
Who can I contact for additional information? For additional information about the study or if you have any complaints in relation to this study, please contact Lindsay Sullivan, PhD, MA, CHES®, Lecturer Above the Bar, Discipline of Children’s Studies, College of Arts, Social Sciences, & Celtic Studies, NUI Galway on 091 493668 or by email

If you have any concerns about this study and wish to contact someone independent and in confidence, you may contact Gem Mathieu, Research Ethics Coordinator, National University of Ireland, Galway by email