Child Development During the COVID‐19 Pandemic Through a Life Course Theory Lens

Abstract

The COVID‐19 global pandemic and the resulting economic, health, and educational disruptions have upset all aspects of young people’s lives. The pandemic’s reach will likely continue in the near term and as psychological and academic trajectories unfold over time. In this article, we draw on the central tenets of life course theory—intertwined developmental trajectories, linked lives, and stratification systems (Elder, 1998)—to inform understanding of potential adverse effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on children’s and adolescents’ adjustment and well‐being, as well as mechanisms and processes that may buffer or exacerbate the pandemic’s negative impact. We review empirical evidence on the impact of previous macro‐level crises (e.g., the Great Recession) to illustrate how life course theory can aid developmental scientists in examining the effects of COVID‐19 on children’s development. We conclude with recommendations for research.