Challenges couples face in managing family routines after the transition to parenthood
Date
2016
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch University, Department of Social Work
Abstract
Family routines improve family stability. However, it is unclear what impedes the formation of stable routines after life transitions. In this paper we discuss normative challenges that 10, mostly low-income, couples face in managing routines after becoming parents. Qualitative analysis revealed three themes: temporal incongruence, schedule derailment, and factors that increase task and temporal complexity. The seven sub-themes of the latter theme were transport limitations, workplace schedules, extended family involvement, child-related difficulties, health complications, incongruence between family member needs, and a composite of these factors. Results underscore the need to address context-specific family challenges related to time restrictions and scheduling.
Description
CITATION: De Goede, C. & Greeff, A. Challenges couples face in managing family routines after the transition to parenthood. Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, 52(3):313-331, doi:10.15270/52-3-512.
The original publication is available at http://socialwork.journals.ac.za
The original publication is available at http://socialwork.journals.ac.za
Keywords
Family -- Customs, Parenthood
Citation
De Goede, C. & Greeff, A. Challenges couples face in managing family routines after the transition to parenthood. Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, 52(3):313-331, doi:10.15270/52-3-512