Circles of Support: Exploring the ‘Where’ and ‘Why’ of Parents’ of Infants Information Seeking Behaviors

Parenting knowledge affects parenting practices and child development, yet more information is needed about “where” parents of infants turn for information and “why” they choose these sources. Using a mixed-methods approach, the authors captured and analyzed the cited resources that 38 parents turn to when seeking information about parenting. The present study utilized an innovative interview design which invited parents to consider and compare the people, places, and tools (“where”) they turn for support and their relative preference for each by thinking of their resources within “Circles of Support”. Parents were also asked to provide insight into “why” they make these choices. The Survey of Parental Expectations and Knowledge (SPEAK) was used as a measure of parenting knowledge. Descriptive information about parents (years of education and parenting knowledge) were also considered in relation to stated preferences for resource categories. Findings indicated that “informal” sources of information, such as family and friends, are commonly sought out with parent education level being significantly correlated with some resource categories (i.e., books, professionals). As to why they choose certain resources, parents prioritized “relational” and “informational” reasons, over “personal” reasons. Implications for avenues to provide parents with parenting knowledge and information are discussed.