Parenting in a pandemic: a qualitative exploration of parents’ experiences of supporting their children during the COVID-19 pandemic

Shum, A. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2728-1490, Klampe, M.-L., Pearcey, S., Cattel, C., Burgess, L., Lawrence, P. J. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6181-433X and Waite, P. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1967-8028 (2023) Parenting in a pandemic: a qualitative exploration of parents’ experiences of supporting their children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Family Studies, 29 (5). pp. 2335-2355. ISSN 1839-3543 doi: 10.1080/13229400.2023.2168561

Abstract/Summary

This qualitative study examined parents’ experiences of supporting their children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eighteen parents of children aged 2–16 years from diverse backgrounds, living in the UK, were interviewed one-to-one about their experiences. Ten professionals working with children and families were also interviewed to gain a broader perspective of parents’ experiences. Using Reflexive Thematic Analysis, four themes were developed: (a) worries and uncertainties; (b) mental exhaustion; (c) resources available to cope with the challenges; and (d) finding the positives. Findings revealed the worries and uncertainties that parents faced regarding how best to support their child and the long-term consequences of the pandemic, as well as feelings of mental exhaustion from juggling multiple responsibilities. The impact of COVID-19 on parents’ wellbeing was varied and parents identified several factors that determined their ability to support their children, such as space in the home environment, support networks and their personal mental health. Despite the challenges, some parents reported positive experiences, such as strengthened family bonds during the pandemic. Our study emphasizes the importance of flexible work arrangements and family-friendly employment policies, as well as support for parents to enable them to support their children and look after their own wellbeing.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/110322
Item Type	Article
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Life Sciences > School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences > Department of Psychology
Uncontrolled Keywords	Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
Publisher	Informa UK Limited
Download/View statistics	View download statistics for this item