Parenting is a journey filled with joys and challenges, and it's perfectly normal to need help along the way. Research shows that almost all parents are open to accessing professional support if necessary. However, many parents still face barriers when it comes to finding the right resources. Let's explore some key insights from the 2019 Parenting Today in Victoria Study that can help you understand how to seek support effectively.
Why Parents Seek Help
The study found that over half of the parents had sought advice from professionals about raising their children, and nearly a third had attended parenting groups or seminars. Parents often look for support when they notice behavioral or emotional problems in their children. However, these same parents sometimes struggle to know where to find the right help.
Factors Influencing Help-Seeking
Certain demographics are more likely to seek help than others. English-speaking parents with higher levels of parenting self-efficacy and a positive sense of wellbeing are more inclined to access professional support. On the other hand, being male or in paid employment can be linked to lower rates of help-seeking. This highlights the need for services to better engage fathers and working parents.
The Role of Informal Support
Most parents rely on informal support from family and friends before turning to professionals. About 86% of surveyed parents agreed they had someone they could turn to for advice. However, this isn't universal—parents experiencing psychological distress or those from non-English speaking backgrounds are less likely to have such informal networks.
Willingness and Awareness
An overwhelming majority of parents (9 out of 10) expressed willingness to consult professionals like GPs, nurses, or psychologists if needed. While most parents know where to get help, awareness of parenting groups or seminars is less widespread. This gap is more pronounced among non-English speaking families and those dealing with children's behavioral issues.
The Real Use of Professional Support
The study found that nearly three-quarters of parents had accessed help from educators or health professionals like GPs or psychologists. Interestingly, despite the availability of parenting programs designed for children with behavioral difficulties, these programs are underutilized by those who might benefit most.
The Gender Gap in Help-Seeking
Mothers are generally more proactive in seeking professional support compared to fathers. This aligns with previous research showing that men are less likely to engage in parenting programs due to various factors including work commitments and societal expectations.
Satisfaction with Professional Help
The majority of parents were satisfied with the help they received from professionals. However, those experiencing psychological distress were more likely to feel judged or criticized during these interactions. It's crucial for service providers to offer non-judgmental support, especially for vulnerable families.
Conclusion: Bridging the Gap
The findings underscore the importance of making professional parenting support more accessible and culturally sensitive. Schools and community organizations play a vital role in disseminating information about available resources. By understanding these dynamics, we can work towards ensuring every parent gets the support they need for their child's optimal development.
If you're interested in learning more about parental help-seeking behaviors and how you can access support, please follow this link.
