Considerations in becoming a parent such as responsibilities, and the availability of social and emotional support and resources.

Question 1

Things people need to consider before becoming a parent.

Answer 1

1. Responsibilities (Meeting a child’s needs, managing or dealing with their lifestyle changes, providing an environment for optimal development)
2. Support (Social, emotional)
3. Resources (Time, money, knowledge, maternal resources, Government (federal, State, and Local))

Question 2

Social and emotional support available for first time parents.

Answer 2

Social:
- Money, babysitters, help with meal prep, sharing information, household tasks
- Having family members available to babysit can mean parents might be able to work, increasing financial resources
- Social support helps parents cope with stress and be more resilient

Emotional
- Once the baby arrives there may be regret at losing a lifestyle that involved greater financial independence and career advancement
- “Baby blues” mothers experience anxiety, mood swings and irritability caused by hormonal changes
- Well-supported parents may have friends that help share advice in non-judgmental ways
- Supported parents may feel less stressed, make good decisions and model appropriate behaviors

Question 3

Outline two Government initiatives that are designed to assist parents.