Parenting Challenges of Second -Generation Iraqi Mothers Raising Adolescents in Sweden

Abstract

This study focuses on the parenting challenges faced by second-generation Iraqi mothers while raising their adolescents in Sweden. It aims to explore how these mothers deal with parenting challenges, particularly the cultural dissonance between their Iraqi cultural heritage and Swedish parenting norms, while attempting to adapt to Swedish societal culture. This is a central issue in these mothers' experiences, significantly affecting their relationships with their adolescents.
The study examines four key areas: Cultural dissonance, generational differences, parenting styles, and the relationships between adolescents and their mothers. Accordingly, three relevant theories were adopted: Acculturation (Berry, 1997), Intergenerational Conflict (Kwak, 2003), and Family Systems (Bowen, 1978). Additionally, several previous studies were referenced, enriching both the theoretical and practical aspects of this research. Following the qualitative methodology adopted by the researcher in chapter four and the questions representing the main research problem, she analyzed data from 10 semi-structured interviews—5 with mothers and 5 with their adolescents. The study concluded that these mothers have indeed undergone diverse social experiences, leading to variations in the challenges they face, manifested as crises in raising their adolescents.
The study’s findings reveal different parenting challenges depending on the mothers' cultural, social, and educational backgrounds. This explains why some of the interviewed adolescents experience strained relationships with their mothers, while others exhibit psychological and social stability due to their positive relationships with their mothers.

Popular Abstract

This master's thesis is on the topic of parenting challenges faced by second-generation Iraqi mothers while raising their adolescents’ children in Sweden. The study focuses on examining the cultural dissonance between traditional Iraqi values and progressive Swedish values, the generational differences between first- and second-generation Iraqi mothers, parenting styles, and the nature of relationships between mothers and their adolescents. This study aimed to understand the experiences and perspectives of second-generation Iraqi mothers regarding these challenges and how they shape the parenting styles employed, from their children's early childhood through adolescence. While emphasizing the importance of ‘cultural dissonance’ due to its fundamental role in revealing the challenges faced by these mothers. The study conducted ten semi-structured qualitative interviews, evenly divided between mothers and their adolescents. These interviews explored how both groups manage cultural differences in their social interactions and how mothers perceive these differences influencing their parenting experiences. The research framework was built upon existing literature and theoretical foundations encompassing three key perspectives: acculturation theory, intergenerational conflict theory, and family systems theory. The findings reveal mothers' conscious attempts to address parenting difficulties by developing blended approaches that incorporate both Iraqi and Swedish values. These hybrid methods include supporting adolescent independence while promoting social adaptation and maintaining open communication channels, all aimed at fostering positive and successful mother-child relationships.
The study uncovered negative aspects stemming from cultural dissonance. These include adolescents tending toward full assimilation rather than the integration strategy preferred by their mothers, instances where extended family involvement is perceived by adolescents as undue interference, the continued significance of traditional gender roles in parenting, and the noticeable impact of absent fathers on family dynamics. The research ultimately demonstrates the diverse spectrum of mother-adolescent relationships, ranging from positive and supportive to tense and occasionally conflict-ridden connections.

• author: Al-Khazraji, Sanaa
• supervisor: Priscilla Solano
• organization: Sociology
• course: SOCM05 20251
• year: 2025
• type: H2 - Master's Degree (Two Years)
• subject: Social Sciences
• keywords: Parenting Challenges, Second-Generation Iraqi Mothers, Cultural Dissonance, Generational Differences, parenting Styles, Adolescent-Mother Relationships
• language: English
• id: 9195381
• date added to LUP: 2025-06-11 09:27:55
• date last changed: 2025-06-11 09:27:55