Early parenting – portraits from the lives of first-time parents

Xuereb, Rita Borg; Abela, Angela; Spiteri, Georgette

doi:10.1080/02646838.2012.744961

Cited by 18 publications

(22 citation statements)

References 20 publications

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“…Corresponding with the results of similar studies, it appeared that most parents were happy about being parents, but also found early parenthood difficult and stressful (Borg Xuereb et al, 2012;Kirkova, 2013). While time and financial pressures are implicated (Sidebotham, 2001), much of the distress is based on real or perceived cultural expectations.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 59%

“…They wanted to engage with information on their own terms, and this was usually via books, Internet, select peers and professionals (Cowie, 2009;DHS, 2006;Livingstone, 2014). Unlike the parents of a similar study in Malta, many of the participants of this study were less inclined to seek out the advice of their own parents because they considered it to be out of date (Borg Xuereb et al, 2012). This is in contrast with the notion that most parenting choices are based on the parents' own upbringing (Roy et al, 2014).…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 78%

“…Some of the first-time parents here romanticised parenthood, but their unrealistic expectations became apparent to them very early on, as they came to terms with the reality they now faced. Parents around the world have reported a similar shock at the realities of parenting and explained the disadvantages of not preparing better for early parenthood (Borg Xuereb, et al, 2012;Cronin & McCarthy, 2003). Like the parents of this study, the idea of presenting parenting information during antenatal classes has been raised by earlier cohorts (Nolan, 1997;Parr, 1998).…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 83%

“…This might include efforts to optimise health, reduce risk factors, prepare financially, negotiate household division of labour and increase parenting knowledge (Spiteria, Borg Xuereba, Carrick-Senb, Kanerc, & Martinde, 2014), as well as thoughts and reflections about the impact of psychosocial and lifestyle choices described above. Research suggests, however, that parents are not as well prepared as they would like (Roy et al, 2014), which can leave them feeling overwhelmed as they face their new parental role (Borg Xuereb, Abela, & Spiteri, 2012).…”

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confidence: 97%

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Parents’ Experiences of Early Parenthood – Preliminary Findings

2014

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Parents are instrumental in the healthy development of their children, and consequently future generations, and should therefore be supported in their parental role. Using a Grounded Theory framework, 24 parents of 0- to 10-year-olds were interviewed about their experiences and preparation for parenthood. Despite their overall satisfaction, many felt underprepared, unsure, alone and inadequate during their transition to parenthood. Most of them felt like they struggled unnecessarily during the first year of parenthood, commenting on changes that would help support new parents. This paper reports the preliminary findings of the study.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 59%

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 78%

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 83%

mentioning

confidence: 97%

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Parents’ Experiences of Early Parenthood – Preliminary Findings

2014

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“…This is why nations have invested so much in supporting parents with programmes such as 'Sure Start' and 'Positive Parenting' (UK), 'Head Start' (US) and 'Early Years Plan' (Australia and Canada). Despite these efforts, new parents all over the world still feel unprepared for the reality of parenthood (Borg Xuereb, Abela, & Spiteri, 2012;Carrick-Sen, 2006;Condon, Boyce, & Corkindale, 2004;Cowan & Cowan, 2000;Cronin & McCarthy, 2003;Gage & Kirk, 2002;Macleod, 1999;. The concept of preparation for parenthood needs to be firmly established as a phenomenon that offers a new, alternative and family-centred approach in addressing the needs of parents during their transition to parenthood.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 96%

Preparation for parenthood: a concept analysis

Spiteri

Xuereb

Carrick-Sen

et al. 2014

Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology

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Objective: This article reviewed the literature and critically analysed the concept of preparation for parenthood. The analysis is mainly of a discursive nature with some theoretical underpinnings. Background: Preparation for parenthood is a concept that is generally used within psychology, sociology and health professional practice especially midwifery, in terms of preparation for birth and parenthood sessions. However, parents often report feeling unprepared during this period. In order to ensure appropriate delivery of support and education during this time it is important to fully understand what preparation for parenthood really means by unravelling its component elements and understanding its contemporary relevance. Methods: A number of sources were searched using the keywords 'preparation' and 'parenthood'. The concept analysis framework put forward by Walker and Avant was used to develop appropriate cases to further illustrate and explore meaning. Results: The literature search confirmed limited evidence with regards to an in-depth exploration of the concept and the separate elements that are related to each other. This investigation is the first of its kind considering the full range of meanings with regards to the concept and the contemporary evidence available. Law, gender, culture and spirituality all influence the concept and thus antecedents and consequences cannot always be applied to contexts which are fundamentally different. Conclusion: Preparation for parenthood is multi-faceted and changing, thus further research with regards to this concept is warranted. This analysis provides the groundwork for the development of measures that may be used within clinical practice.

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