A master thesis from Aalborg University
Forældres oplevelse af det grænseløse forældreskab - en nuanceret forståelse af forældreskabets praksis
[Parental experiences of intensive parenting - a nuanced understanding of parenting practices]
Forfatter(e)
Semester
4. semester
Uddannelse
Udgivelsesår
2025
Afleveret
2025-05-27
Antal sider
95 pages
Abstract
This qualitative empirical master’s thesis investigates how parents experience parenthood, with particular focus on how these experiences can be understood in light of their personal histories and the prevailing ideals of parenting in contemporary society. A review of the existing litera- ture reveals that the field is largely shaped by a sociological perspective. With this project, we seek to contribute a psychological approach with focus on the personal experiences and indi- vidual backgrounds that can complement and nuance current research. Drawing on a critical psychological and phenomenological framework, the study is based on interviews with four parents. Through a thematic analysis of the empirical data, we find that parenthood is a complex and meaningful part of the participants' lives, grounded in both personal experiences and existential needs. Our analysis further shows that parents are not merely shaped by societal ideals, but also actively engage with them in ways that reflect their own values, experiences, and life conditions. Parenthood thus emerges as a dynamic and situated practice, where parents appear as reflective agents navigating between external demands and personal choices. Based on these findings, we critically engage with previous research and argue for the importance of a psycho- logical perspective in understanding modern parenthood. We also discuss how such a perspec- tive may inform and improve psychological practice—particularly within Danish School Psy- chologists (PPR), where practice-oriented approaches and contextual understanding is central. The discussion ends with methodological and ethical reflections on our approach, research prac- tice, and participants. In conclusion, the thesis argues that while parenthood is undoubtedly influenced by societal ideals, parents must also be understood as active and capable individuals, shaped by their own values, experiences, and life circumstances. This thesis contributes to a more holistic understanding of the conditions surrounding parenthood. Future research may beneficially explore how this knowledge can be applied in psychological practice, and what implications it may have for understanding children and their well-being.
Emneord
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