Research code: 163021263
Ethics code: 1404.029.IR.IAU.SHK.REC
1- Department of Psychology, ShK.C., Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran.
2- Department of Psychology, ShK.C., Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran. , ahmadghazanfari1964@iau.ac.ir
Abstract: (183 Views)
Adoptive parents experience numerous challenges and complexities surrounding establishing effective communication and adapting themselves to the emotional, psychological, and social needs of their adopted children. This study was conducted based on a descriptive phenomenological approach. Its objective was to investigate parenting challenges from the perspective of adoptive parents referred to the Welfare Organization of Isfahan Province during the years 2024-2025. The study period was from January to March 2025. The sample size consisted of twelve participants. The main criteria for selecting participants were having at least one adopted child and volunteering to participate in the study. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, and the lived experiences of participants were examined. Interview data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method. Following thematic extraction and classification, the interview results were categorized into 3 main themes: Initial Emotional Reactions, Lifestyle Changes and Challenges of the Adoption Period, and Parenting Necessities; along with 20 sub-themes. Overall, the exploration of parenting challenges among adoptive parents revealed that they are affected across various dimensions: relational, behavioral, social, familial, and cultural. Therefore, these themes can be utilized to develop educational and psychological programs for parents with adopted children.
Type of Article:
Qualitative article |
Subject:
Educational Psychology Received: 2025/08/12 | Accepted: 2025/11/15 | ePublished: 2026/03/29