Family practices in later life as a challenge for learning and research

Abstract

The article presents the results of a qualitative study. The goal of this research study was to find out how and what couples learn while they experience the transition to parenthood and also whether, and how, the changing that occurs is connected with transformative learning. Transformative Learning Theory explains learning by making meaning of that life experience. The research included 12 couples expecting the first child. Biographical Method was used as the research method. The study showed that the transition from a childless relationship to parenthood is accompanied by transformative learning in various spheres of life. The most explicit was the transformative learning in the spheres of the relationship with the family of origin, in the formation of identity and in division of housework. The article also mentions the emotional dimension of learning, meaning-making, and presents other results of the research.