Att vara förälder i ett nytt samhälle - En kvalitativ studie om migrantföräldrars erfarenheter av föräldrautbildningar

Sammanfattning

The purpose of this study was to explore the subjective experiences of migrant parents participating in parenting programmes in Sweden. Specifically, it investigates how parents perceive the program’s influence on their parenthood and parenting capacity, how their cultural and religious values are considered within the program, and what significance the program has for their inclusion in Swedish society. A qualitative approach was used by semi–structured interviews with migrant parents who have participated in parenting programmes offered by social services. The empirical material was analyzed through a thematic analysis, guided by Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, as well as Honneth’s recognition theory. The findings indicate that participants experienced the parenting program to be highly beneficial for their parenting role. Parents reported developing new strategies, such as improved communication with their children and reflective parenting practices, leading to increased confidence in their parental role. Contrary to previous research suggesting that parenting programmes may reproduce normative expectations of “Swedish” parenting, participants perceived the program as culturally neutral and respectful of their religious and cultural values. Parents emphasized that they did not experience pressure to abandon their cultural or religious values, but rather felt encouraged to reflect on their children’s perspectives. At the same time, many participants described the programmes as an important pathway to understanding Swedish society, parenting norms, and public institutions, which could contribute to integration and a sense of recognition and inclusion. However, participants also expressed a greater need for more information about public institutions, the social services, parental rights, and how Swedish society functions, as insufficient knowledge could cause stress and uncertainty in their parenting role. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that parenting programmes can function not only as parental support but also as an important arena for learning, recognition, and social inclusion for parents with migrant backgrounds.