The Consequences of Lockdown due to COVID-19 on Female Academics in Jordanian Universities

Abstract

This study aims to identify the consequences of lockdowns due to the coronavirus on female academics in Jordan. An online survey was distributed via social media and filled in by 131 female participants from different academic ranks in public and private universities. The study investigated four main variables: the consequences of lockdown on the social aspect, psychological aspect, and economic aspect, and also on how time was spent during the lockdown, and the correlation between these variables and other social and personal factors (such as the marital status, etc.). It was found that female academics are significantly affected on both levels: the economic aspect and the activities spent during the lockdown, followed by the psychological and social aspects. The results show that marital status played a significant role, as single female academics are generally affected more than married ones. Economically, it is found that the sector in which the participant works in has a significant impact. Female academics working in the private sector are affected more than those working in the public sector. In addition, the academic degree the participant holds plays a key role. Academics with master’s degrees are affected economically and psychologically, and even in terms of spending time during the lockdown.