Abstract:
In this particular research project the narratives and experiences of parents within reconstituted families have been the subject of reflective thought, alluding to the possible influence of the classic fairy tale or fable on these experiences. Aspects which were touched on in the research included the general validity of discussions on parenting experiences in reconstituted families, while reflecting on these parents’ ability to confide and relate their experiences openly and frankly in a society where the nuclear family is often seen as the ‘ideal family’. Cognisance was taken too of the possibility that parents were reticent in voicing their experiences so as not to enforce prevalent generalisations. Furthermore, research was undertaken to examine alternative parenting narratives and methods by which these narratives could be heard so as to minimise misconceptions and labels on parenting in reconstituted families. Attention was also paid to the role that the church and fellow-believers and brethren have in aiding the often marginalised voice of non-nuclear families to be heard.
