Mödrars erfarenheter av support i sociala nätverk : Kontaktpreferenser samt fäders och socialarbetares betydelse

The postpartum period is an exciting still stressful time for mothers. Although their experiences may be different, all of them appreciate support in the course of this time. In Sweden, there has been a shift from traditional to more individualistic values. It is considered to be one of the most individualistic countries in the world, which makes Sweden an interesting case to study. The aim of the thesis was to explore mothers’ experiences of their social support network including their contact preferences, the part of the child’s father, and the role of the Swedish welfare state/social work. Data was collected conducting semi-structured interviews and using easyNWK, a software for recording and analysing social networks. An evaluation of the social network cards was supported by easyNWK. Thematic analysis was applied to the transcripts. Findings indicate that mothers experience five different types of support which are named instrumental, emotional, informational, and appraisal support as well as social companionship in previous literature. These are provided by family, and friends followed by colleagues as well as professionals. Maternal support and paternal support are identified as individual preferences. The child’s father is either suggested as supportive or absent/lack of backup. Available resources of professionals and individualised support offers provided by the Swedish welfare state are appreciated. Social work plays a role in the provision of emotional and informational support