When parents love and don't love their children: some children's stories |
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| Authors: | Heather D'Cruz Karen Stagnitti |
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| Institution: | 1. Senior Lecturer in Social Work, Deakin University, School of Health and Social Development, Geelong, Victoria, and;2. Associate Professor in Occupational Science and Therapy, Deakin University, School of Health and Social Development, Geelong, Victoria, Australia |
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| Abstract: | This paper discusses a small pilot study with Anglo‐Australian children aged 6 to 8 years. The children expressed through stories of what it meant for them when parents love and care for their children, and when they do not. Themes from stories of parental love and care included: relationships, shared special times, being safe and protected, and physical affection. Stories about parents who did not love or care for their children covered themes of abandonment, isolation and sadness. The study contributes an approach that can improve professional practice with children and early outcomes showing the importance of seeking children's perspectives in decision‐making about their welfare. |
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| Keywords: | child‐centred practice children's stories parental love and care participatory practice |
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