Just face it: No exercising or shopping without a mask
The study found of the people working full time, 18% thought a total lockdown was excessive and would not solve the issue, while 82% found a total lockdown was correct given the risk.
Of the part-time working group, 15% did not support the lockdown, while 85% did.
Those not working were 84% in support of the lockdown, while 16% were not, and of the unemployed, 86% were for the lockdown while 14% were not.
“This acceptance is expressed by all age groups, however, those aged 56 years and older, and to a lesser degree those between 26 and 35 years, are less supportive.
ALSO READ | Lockdown Level 4: What you need to know about the new transport regulations
“The latter group’s apprehension might be related to having to look after young children/keep them entertained during this period of lockdown,” Harris said.
The study also found most South Africans (78%) expected the lockdown to be extended past the end of April.
“Taking the support for the lockdown into account, it comes as no surprise that online, South Africans feel very strongly [86%] that the people who break the rules should not expect a lot of mercy,” she added.
Almost 92% of the study found people take the virus into account before thinking about where they will go, who they will meet and what they will do on a particular day.
The study also showed the fear of infection has not led to a total change in shopping behaviour but 22% indicated they make use of online shopping more.
“This new behaviour is prevalent among all age groups, but more in the 26 to 35 year age group,” Harris said.
In addition, 67% of South Africans say they are visiting major shopping centres less frequently.
“This study is representative of the almost two thirds of South Africans who can access the internet at home or on their mobile phones,” she added.
Stay healthy and entertained during the national lockdown. Sign up for our Lockdown Living newsletter. Register and manage your newsletters in the new News24 app by clicking on the Profile tab
