ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Experiences of sharing, learning and caring: Peer support in a Finnish group of mothers
Eija Eronen M.Soc.Sc.,,
Corresponding Author
Eija Eronen M.Soc.Sc.,
Researcher
Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
Correspondence
Eija Eronen, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere 33014, Finland.
Email: [email protected]
Search for more papers by this authorEija Eronen M.Soc.Sc.,,
Corresponding Author
Eija Eronen M.Soc.Sc.,
Researcher
Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
Correspondence
Eija Eronen, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere 33014, Finland.
Email: [email protected]
Search for more papers by this authorAbstract
Mothers' peer groups constitute a form of communal support that affords potential benefits but has received little attention in Finland. At present, only a few studies have investigated the support provided by peer groups of mothers. This article explores mothers' experiences of peer support in a Finnish peer group. First, the data gathered in 2015 comprise data from thematic interviews with 23 mothers participating in peer group activities. Second, the data include written notes gathered during participant observation in the group's 12 meetings, two outings and summer camp. The data were analysed by utilising a phenomenological-hermeneutic approach, and three themes representing mothers' experiences were identified: (a) sharing of experiences, (b) learning from experiences and (c) experiences of mutual caring. By exploring relationships among these themes, this study found that the sharing of experiences is a starting point for learning and caring among mothers. These findings suggest that the sharing of experiences is a crucial part of peer support because it results in learning and caring. Versatile support can be enabled by strengthening the preconditions for sharing.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The author does not have a conflict of interest to declare.
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