Improving the Experiences of Mothers Struggling with Their Children’s Misbehavior


Kurt Ş. H., Sığırtmaç A., Özsezer M. S.

Çukurova Üniversitesi Eğitim Fakültesi Dergisi, vol.50, no.2, pp.1184-1209, 2021 (ESCI)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the perceptions of mothers' and their children regarding the children’s misbehaviour and the mothers’ response to it. The research was carried out through the action research approach, which is a qualitative research methodology. The research data were collected through interviews, training evaluations, and participant diaries. The data analysis was carried out using content analysis. The study participants consisted of children attending nursery school in the Anamur district of Mersin, Turkey and the mothers of these children. The action research process began with the interview and observation data from the participating children. In light of the information obtained from these data, interviews were conducted with the mothers to determine their needs as well as identify their difficulties with their children’s misbehaviour. As a result of the mothers’ interviews, training was prepared to utilize expert opinion to improve the mothers' experiences who had been struggling with their children’s misbehaviours. As a result of the study, it was seen that mothers used physical violence as discipline/punishment to address their children’s misbehaviour. By analyzing the data obtained from the participants, the needs of the mothers struggling with the children’s misbehaviours were determined. An action plan was prepared in line with this needs analysis. As a result of the training according to the action plan, it was concluded that the mothers recognized their mistakes and learned from their deficiencies. It was also found that mothers noticed that their relationship with their children had changed positively. Additionally, it was concluded that the trainings should be repeated at certain intervals and that the children’s fathers should also participate.