Abstract
This qualitative paper promotes the phenomenological understanding of how mothers from a low socio economic environment (LSEE) envision, design and implement their future perspective of their relationship with their children. In this single instrumental case study ddata were collected through two consecutive focus group discussions with twelve purposefully selected participants, utilising the World Cafe Method and Appreciative Inquiry: 1) to collect data; 2) as a research method that also facilitates change. Findings revealed difficulties envisioning a future and verbalising concepts such as dream, design and destiny. Findings reveal that boundaries are over or under realistic; dreams are clouded by parenting issues, however strong emotional interactions in relationships and wishes to fulfil children’s needs through open respectful communication and friendship exists. Insight is gained that togetherness influences relationships; the present influences the future, especially relating to how discipline is executed. Mothers shared future plans for support. Support needed for possible interventions in building on strengths to promote closeness in their relationships with their children is highlighted.
Highlights
The quality of relationships, including those between mothers and children, is influenced by the nature of the socio-economic environment in which they prevail
Mothers living in low socio-economic environments (LSEEs) have to cope with multiple challenges such as low income, unemployment, poverty, overcrowded and poor living conditions in small dwellings, domestic violence, substance abuse, low educational levels, and teenage pregnancies (Bergin & Bergin, 2015; Leon-Guerrero, 2013)
Even though the poverty rate in South Africa dropped from 57.2% in 2006 to 45,5% in 2011, the dilemmas related to socio-economic, political and environmental issues remain (Statistics South Africa, 2014)
Summary
The quality of relationships, including those between mothers and children, is influenced by the nature of the socio-economic environment in which they prevail. Mothers living in low socio-economic environments (LSEEs) have to cope with multiple challenges such as low income, unemployment, poverty, overcrowded and poor living conditions in small dwellings (often without water, electricity and sanitation), domestic violence, substance abuse, low educational levels, and teenage pregnancies (Bergin & Bergin, 2015; Leon-Guerrero, 2013). Limited resources unavoidably trigger stress, and as a result the pressure and anxiety experienced by mothers influence their relationships with their children.
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