CULTURAL PERCEPTIONS OF COVID-19 AND ITS TREATMENT THROUGH HOME REMEDIES

Abstract

The coronavirus has brought many challenges in our life. The impact of covid-19 drastically increased with each passing day. The constant fear of this disease impacted the psychology of people living in the entire world. People belonging to different cultural backgrounds responded to this pandemic situation in different ways. This research aimed to know the general perception of the people belonging to diversified ethnic groups and social backgrounds (classes). This project is initiated to investigate that how cultural differences impacted the general perception of the disease, precautions, and cure. What are their believes about this virus and its cure. Furthermore, the study also tried to understand the role of cultural patterns in developing certain health behavior to counter the negative effects of covid-19. Rawalpindi and Islamabad were selected as a research site and digital ethnography was used as main method to collect the data from the selected sample. Current research reveals that cultural variations played a significant role in the perception of the people. The health behavior of the people is directly related to the cultural norms of the individual. Research also highlighted Media as a source of information and misinformation and how it shaped people perception about COVID-19. And it was also observed that higher level of religiosity among respondents lessens the stress levels during the lockdown. Further it is proved that people of Pakistan prefer herbal remedies on scientific medication. Findings illustrates that it is kind of blessings in disguise because now people are more health conscious as compare to earlier, usage of herbal remedies and high cleaning practices will definitely impact the lives of Pakistani people in positive way.