Experiences of sharing, learning and caring: Peer support in a Finnish group of mothers

Abstract

Mothers' peer groups constitute a form of communal support that affords potential benefits but has received little attention in Finland. At present, only a few studies have investigated the support provided by peer groups of mothers. This article explores mothers' experiences of peer support in a Finnish peer group. First, the data gathered in 2015 comprise data from thematic interviews with 23 mothers participating in peer group activities. Second, the data include written notes gathered during participant observation in the group's 12 meetings, two outings and summer camp.The data were analysed by utilising a phenomenological-hermeneutic approach, and three themes representing mothers' experiences were identified: (a) sharing of experiences, (b) learning from experiences and (c) experiences of mutual caring. By exploring relationships among these themes, this study found that the sharing of experiences is a starting point for learning and caring among mothers. These findings suggest that the sharing of experiences is a crucial part of peer support because it results in learning and caring. Versatile support can be enabled by strengthening the preconditions for sharing. K E Y W O R D Smaternal welfare, mother-child relationship, mothers, peer group, peer support, self-help group

Ethnic Differences in Preferences for Lifestyle Intervention among Women after Childbirth: A Multi-Methods Study in Australia

“…As women experience considerable changes in their physical, mental and social health following birth [ 72 ], a range of health professionals should be involved for their health support. One-on-one consultations can provide individualized feedback and home-based care for postpartum women [ 6 , 73 ], while small group delivery benefits from peer support which is important to alleviate emotional drain and encourage behavioural changes [ 74 , 75 ]. From our survey and interviews, combining the two formats in delivering an intervention may be beneficial for postpartum women.…”

Strengthening Peer Mentoring Relationships for New Mothers: A Qualitative Analysis

“…Previous research has highlighted different areas of similarity, such as being in a similar geographical location, culture, employment status, marital status, age, and recency of childbirth, as contributors to peer relationship building [ 23 , 27 ]. Having similar experiences, however, seems to be one important aspect for successful relationships identified by many studies (e.g., [ 23 , 37 , 40 ]). Research on similarity-attraction suggests that surface-level (e.g., age, ethnicity) and deep-level (e.g., attitude, values) have impact on quality of social relation with peers and program adherence behaviours [ 60 , 61 ].…”

“…They also reported that not all peer support relationships were successful in shaping positive outcomes for the recipients of support. To date, only a few studies have investigated factors influencing the strength of relationship between mentors and mentees in peer support programs for mothers [ 23 , 40 ]. For example, Shorey and Ng [ 23 ] found that having flexibility in mode of contact (e.g., phone calls, WhatsApp), being a listening ear to mentees, and helping mentees feel like they are not alone facilitated relationship development.…”

Development of first‐time mothers' sense of shared identity and integration with other mothers in their neighbourhood

“…It involves changes at various levels from everyday practices to social relations and identities which have widespread ramifications for one's sense of self, health and well‐being. Mothers' social integration with other mothers has a profound impact on the smooth transition to motherhood (Alstveit, Severinsson, & Karlsen, 2010; Eronen, 2020). Social integration refers to participation and involvement in social relationships such as contacts, friendships and group memberships in one's social environment (e.g., Grazia & Herrero, 2004).…”

“…While new mothers' relations with family members remain fairly constant, there is often a shift from friends without children to those with children (Wrzus et al, 2013). These new relations are important, as they offer companionship and opportunities to share and compare experiences (Alstveit et al, 2010; Eronen, 2020). Other mothers in the same residential area can offer easily accessible company and social support including practical help, emotional support and advice for mothers whose social relations and daily lives with young children are often anchored close to home (Witten, Kearns, McCreanor, Penney, & Faalau, 2009).…”