Application of resilience theories in the transition to parenthood: a scoping review. (15th March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Young, Cecily; Roberts, Rachel; Ward, Lynn
• Is Part Of: Journal of reproductive and infant psychology. Volume 37:Number 2(2019)
• Page Start: 139
• Page End: 160
• Publication Date: 2019-03-15
• Subjects: Resilience -- adjustment -- coping -- parent -- social support -- theory -- scoping review; Human reproduction -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Pregnancy -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Infant psychology -- Periodicals; Reproduction -- Periodicals; Child Psychology -- Periodicals; Women -- psychology -- Periodicals; 612.6
• DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2018.1540860
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-6838

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Objective : Investigate the use of resilience theories in the transition to parenthood literature. Background : The transition to parenthood is a key developmental experience for many adults. Resilience is a unifying theoretical concept which incorporates many of the skills and resources linked with the transition to parenthood, but the uptake of resilience theory in this literature is unknown. Methods : We used a scoping review to examine the use of resilience theory in published transition to parenthood research. This included a systematic search of the literature, descriptive analysis of theories and methods used and an assessment of theoretical integration. Results : We identified 17 studies which met inclusion criteria. Explicit use of theory occurred in six studies and quality of theoretical integration was high for all of these. Resilience was seen as a desirable concept for mapping complex data, taking a holistic approach to psychological health and acknowledging environmental and systemic influences. We also identified 29 resilience supporting factors including positive self-concept, optimism, social support, family relationships, community services and social connectedness. Conclusion : Resilience is a useful concept for synthesising information about the transition to parenthood.