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Experiences of sharing, learning and caring: Peer support in a Finnish group of mothers
Author(s) -
Eronen Eija
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
health and social care in the community
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.984
H-Index - 68
eISSN - 1365-2524
pISSN - 0966-0410
DOI - 10.1111/hsc.12890
Subject(s) - peer support , thematic analysis , peer group , support group , psychology , participant observation , qualitative research , point (geometry) , developmental psychology , social psychology , sociology , psychiatry , social science , geometry , mathematics , anthropology
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.