Process theory of parenthood. Basics for the reflection and disclosure of parenthood concepts in research and professional practice

Abstract

Up to now research and professional practice do not have any consistent theoretical concept of parenthood. Therefore they can only fall back on unquestioned ideas which they try to systemize and amend with theoretical fragments. Instead of improving a theoretical perspective they unwillingly fuel the normative discourse on parenthood. This paper now lines out a theoretical approach to parenthood, based on the process theory by Norbert Elias. Parenthood is not only understood as a psycho-social process of individuals but at the same time as a long-term psycho-social process of societies, in which individuals are socio-historically embedded via their networks. Through this indispensable core-process of parenthood societies ensure generativity and mold standards, ideals and habitus of parenthood.