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http://dx.doi.org/10.5723/kjcs.2016.37.3.147

A Qualitative Study on Experiences of Parenthood Among Mothers of Early School-Age Children  

Doh, Hyun-Sim (Department of Child Development, Ewha Womans University)
Song, Seung-Min (Department of Child & Family Welfare, The University of Suwon)
Lee, Woon Kyung (Department of Child Development, Ewha Womans University)
Kim, Min-Jung (Department of Child Welfare, Namseoul University)
Shin, Nana (Department of Child Development, Ewha Womans University)
Kim, Tae Woo (Department of Child Development, Ewha Womans University)
Publication Information
Korean Journal of Child Studies / v.37, no.3, 2016 , pp. 147-166 More about this Journal
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of parenthood of mothers of early school-age children, with emphasis on cognitive, behavioral, and emotional aspects of parenthood. Methods: Nineteen mothers whose children were 1st and 2nd grade elementary school children participated in this study. Data were collected through individual in-depth interviews. During the interview, mothers were asked to speak freely about their experiences as parents of early-school age children, including parenting beliefs, parenting behaviors, and emotional experiences related to parenting. These interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed in a thematic way using MAXQDA. Results: Using qualitative methods, five major themes were emerged: (1) Recognizing the role of parents as a supporter of growth; (2) recognizing parenthood of the present generation that imposes expanded roles to mothers; (3) co-parenting of early school-age children and marital relationship; (4) co-existence of different parenting styles based on specific mother-child interaction situations; (5) experiencing a wide spectrum of emotions including anxiety, guilt, and depression, as well as happiness. Conclusion: This study revealed the unique cognitive, behavioral, and emotional aspects of parenthood experienced by mothers with early school-age children. Results of this study can fill a gap in our understanding of parenthood of mothers when their children entered into the new developmental stage of middle childhood. The results could also be used as a basis for developing parent education and family relationship programs.
Keywords
parenthood; early school-age; parenting beliefs; parenting efficacy; parenting stress; parenting behavior;
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