The needs of Maltese families with dependent children : a focus group study among professionals

Abstract

This article seeks to identify the needs of Maltese families with dependent children. The sociocultural context in which Maltese families are embedded will serve as a theoretical framework for this study. A series of six focus groups with experts in the area of family and children were moderated for the purpose of the study. These focus group sessions were audiotaped and transcribed and the results analysed using thematic analysis. This article draws on the findings of these focus groups and compares them to extant literature on Maltese families before making a number of policy recommendations. Three key themes were elicited: the need for more community work and early intervention; the need for education for life; and the need to support families achieve work-life balance. The main recommendations are: the set-up of family centres for community work and early intervention; the implementation of relationship education programmes; and more family-friendly working practices.