In their own voices : immigrant mothers’ experiences and perceptions of the group-based self-assured parents programme for parents in disadvantaged areas in Sweden

Culturally responsive parenting interventions are crucial for immigrant parents in disadvantaged areas. This qualitative study delves into the experiences of 18 immigrant mothers (Mage =41.2 years) from Somalia, Syria, Turkey, Eritrea, and Iraq participating in the Swedish Self-Assured Parents programme, targeting immigrant parents who live in social disadvantage with teenage children. Thematic analysis revealed seven main themes (1) the meaning of the programme content and structure, (2) enjoying  oneself  and  being  comfortable,  (3) putting  theadolescent  in  the  centre, (4) mothers’own  socioemotionaldevelopment, (5) changing from being a passive reactor to anactive agent, (6) empowered citizenship, and (7) having always been a strong and good mother. Overall, the mothers were positive about both the content and the format of the programme, appreciating the warm and supportive climate. They also perceived themselves as being more attentive to adolescent needs, having improved their own socio-emotional skills, and being empowered both as a citizen and as a mother on accoun tof attending the programme. With the development of culturally responsive programmes that take into account the unique needsand experiences of diverse populations, governments  can effectively support parents, promote child positive development, and help cultivate social cohesion among the members of society. ; CC BY 4.0