Delegated Parenting in the City of Masvingo: Perceptions and Experiences of Parent Students at Zimbabwe Open University, Masvingo Regional Campus

Abstract

This study sought to investigate perceptions and experiences of female parent students on delegated parenting using a sample of twenty parent students at Zimbabwe Open University, Masvingo regional campus. The study was qualitative. Data was generated using focus group discussion. The study revealed that, the young female parents did not trust their maids but still they had to rely on them since they were all employed and going to school. Respondents shared instances and reports of child abuse in their families and stories from the media about child abuse. The study recommended that government, employers and local authorities should come up with supportive policies to create a conducive environment for parenting responsibilities; efforts should be made to improve the quality and conditions for child care in both the informal and formal environment through caregiver training; and parents should always create quality time for their children.