Social Connection when Physically Isolated: Family Experiences in Using Video Calls

Abstract Digital (video) calls have become a significant tool during the challenging times marked by COVID-19 pandemic. The article focuses on perceived functionality of video for maintaining social contacts and overcoming loneliness in celebrating family festivities limited physical distance policies. qualitative study conducted at end 2021 Latvia Spain examines families’ cultural socialisation via digital tools and, based data obtained from semi-structured in-depth interviews, assesses users’ experiences Christmas New Year retrospective prospective standpoints. revealed that although interactions were acknowledged as an alternative means ensuring togetherness, preserving facilitating emotional connection, experiencing feeling belonging shared identity, they context exception. findings complement existing studies pandemic contributed to bridging gap among generations with coordinated negotiated conceptions tools. Video ensured sense connectedness inspired appearance virtual celebration ideas.