Parenting Perception of Young Malawian Parents

Abstract

In Malawi, the number of young parents has significantly increased over the past decade. This is due to many factors, such as poverty and a lack of economic and social opportunities for young people. Being a young parent in a low-income environment can have negative consequences for both the parent and the child. As the lives of young parents in Malawi can be challenging, having additional support can offer a way for these parents to better fulfil their family’s needs. This support can be provided by a parenting intervention, such as ‘The Parenting Challenge’ (TPC). This intervention aims to improve children’s lives through enhancing parents’ parenting skills. The present study conducted research into the self-reported influence of TPC on young Malawian parents’ perception of parenting. This was done through interviews with ten parents who have previously participated in TPC. Findings revealed that TPC has influenced the perception of parenting of young parents in rural Malawi. The results showed that the parenting intervention helped improve the young parents’ parenting skills, in relation to both basic needs as well as additional parenting skills. These additional parenting skills provide the parents with the tools to give their children the adequate and relevant support. The findings offer insight into the influence of TPC on young Malawian parents’ perception of parenting and contribute to scientific research on the effects of positive parenting on children’s and parents’ development and well-being.