The parenting experience: an exploration study of coping mechanisms of young parents.

Abstract

This study aimed to understand experiences of young parents, and how they coped with parenting challenges in Quarry Heights. Furthermore, this study sought to determine coping techniques used in dealing with parental challenges. The study employed a qualitative approach, where a total of ten participants were interviewed, using an interview schedule. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data collected and various themes emerged. The findings indicate that the transition to parenthood was an unplanned difficult event. Lack of knowledge and parenting skills, lack of financial resources and negative emotions emerged as main challenges. As a result, academic performance was disrupted, social networks were disconnected and parents felt socially isolated. The study found that, parents do not have sufficient coping resources to handle the transition. Coping strategies utilised were not effective in dealing with the challenges. However, social and financial support from family members made the transition process manageable. Therefore, research at government level is recommended to determine the feasibility of developing mentoring programs for teaching parenting and life skills. Furthermore, establishment of counselling centres in schools is recommended for psychological support. Based on the limitation of this study, it is recommended that a diverse sample with different race, gender and socio-economic status for diverse views be used for future research.