Constructing personal networks in the light of COVID-19 containment measures

Abstract The policies for containing the spread of SARS-CoV2 virus include a number of measures aimed at reducing physical contacts. In this paper, we explore the potential impact of such containment measures on social relations of both young adults and elderly in Italy. We propose two ego-centered network definitions accounting for physical distances in light of the recent - and maybe future - COVID-19 containment measures: 1) the easy-to-reach network, that represent a nearby possible source of support in case of new lockdown; 2) accustomed-to-reach network, which include proximity and habit to meet in person. The approach used for constructing personal (ego-centered) networks on data from the most recent release of Families and Social Subject Survey allows to bring in the foreground people exposed to relational vulnerability. The analysis of the most vulnerable No alters individuals by age, gender and place of residence reveal that to be single is often associated with a condition of relational vulnerability not only among elder people, but also for young adults. Results also highlight the role of the place of residence.