Young Lives
Children’s activities, childhood and being a parent today
This research project complements the Young Lives Study, and is part of Real Life Methods. The research is a study of parents with children involved in organised activities. One aim is to explore the motivations behind, and perceived benefits of, having children involved in such activities. Additionally the research project is exploring more general issues to do with parenting, perceptions of childhood and of continuities and changes across generations, and parents’ expectations for their children’s futures.
Research aims
- To explore parents’ perceptions of their children’s involvement in organised activities
- To explore how parents see aspects of childhood now, compared to their own childhood
- To explore parents’ expectations, hopes and concerns for their children’s futures
- To explore parents’ views, experiences and values around parenting
Methods
The research project is using a mix of quantitative and qualitative evidence to gain insight into people’s perceptions and attitudes. We undertook a self completion questionnaire survey of parents with children in organised activities. This was done through a variety of venues, including leisure centres, community based activities and various clubs. 564 questionnaires were completed. We then ran a series of interviews with parents. So far we have interviewed 19 parents in-depth (in interviews which typically lasted 60 to 90 minutes).
We will be seeking funding to extend the study so we can conduct a more extensive series of qualitative interviews and build on what we have learned already. We also hope to secure funding to make the study a longitudinal one. This would mean that we could go back to our original interviewees two years on to learn if and how their views and values have changed over time.
See a summary of findings from the questionnaire survey (run in summer 2008) [document opens in a new window]
The project is being run by:
Dr Sarah Irwin and Dr Sharon Elley
School of Sociology and Social Policy
University of Leeds
LS2 9JT
