On Becoming an Emerging Adult Parent in South Africa: Processes of Commitment, Exploration and Reconsideration of a Parental Identity

Abstract

This study aimed to explore perceptions and experiences of parental identity development, with a specific focus on how the developmental dynamics of emerging adulthood intersect with processes of commitment, exploration and reconsideration of the parental role. Twenty-four South-African emerging adult parents were interviewed. Thematic analysis revealed that the intersection of the transitions towards parenthood and adulthood culminates in a nuanced expression of parental roles in relation to the themes of possibility, instability, in-betweenness, self-focus and identity exploration. Heterogeneity was seen in the expression of mixed emotions of hope and excitement about parenthood together with insecurity and struggles in the attempt to balance multiple roles, especially when facing challenges related to the South-African context. Participants prioritised responsibility and commitment to the parental role, facilitated by the support from parents, extended families and cultural norms. This research presents first steps towards a qualitative inquiry into the three-dimensional conceptualisation of parental identity formation.