Thursday, October 29, 2009
The family supports the state of vulnerability, by Sally W. Olds and Diane E. Papalia
Families that combine a number of risk factors such as poverty, under-education and young mothers are more likely to experience difficulties in terms of parenting. The stress associated with living conditions (economic pressures, isolation, single parenthood, etc..) Weakens the capacity of parents. These become less friendly, more irritable and less effective in resolving problems with the child (Lavigeur, 1989). Traditionally, psychologists and social workers are often more focused on the problems of families rather than their strengths (Lavigueur et al., 2004).
This work culture fosters a negative perception of families in poor circumstances. Stakeholders tend to think that "if they really wanted, they could escape." They then come in families with a number of negative stereotypes that affect not only the solutions they propose, but also the parents' attitude towards the intervention. Indeed, it is not uncommon for these families to be wary. Because they feel judged as inadequate and they fear that their child placed in foster care, these families offer some resistance to the proposed intervention.
This negative attitude towards parents in poor circumstances may also be present among educators and teachers. Children from poor backgrounds are already a negative label when they are in kindergarten, which could affect the family-school relationships (such mésotémique.) But the collaboration and communication between family and school is crucial for the successful integration of children into school (MSSSQ, 1998).
One of the possible solutions explored in Quebec in recent years is to try to change the view of stakeholders on vulnerable families, instead of seeing only the shortcomings of young mothers must take time to consider their strengths. This approach to empowerment, the process by which a person or group takes control of his life.
In this perspective, intervening with mothers discuss their needs. The support may involve providing information on child development, help the young mother's efforts to return to school or to find accommodation. The establishment of such links fosters a sense of power to the mother on her own life, which in turn influence their parenting behaviors.
Psychology of Human Development - 6th edition, p. 158.
# posted by Francis Chartrand @ 9:25 PM 
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