Dates: May 14-16, 2026
Place: SWPS University in Poznań, Poland
SWPS University and ERUA invite Master’s level and Ph.D. students to participate in an Intensive course “Challenges of Contemporary Parenthood”, which will take place in Poznań, Poland, May 14-16, 2026.
About the program
Parenting today can be both rewarding and challenging. Families face new pressures from technology, work, social expectations, and changing ideas about family life. This course, examines main issues related to contemporary parenthood from the research perspective.
What will you learn
During the course, you will:
- Enhance your knowledge and research skills concerning the challenges of contemporary parenthood in Europe
- Examine the role of gender, stereotypes, social norms, and beliefs in shaping parental experiences and behaviors
- Gain theoretical knowledge and methodological skills related to the key constructs such as parental identity, parental burnout, parental regret, and parental gatekeeping
- Understand beliefs concerning biological essentialism and neutrality in parenthood
- Learn about different forms of education and support for parents at various stages of parenthood
A special emphasis will be placed on the role of both psychological and cultural factors in shaping the context for contemporary parenthood, parents’ mental health and access to care.
Through lectures, discussions, and practical exercises, you will critically examine the intersections of culture and gender in mental health contexts, which will prepare you for addressing parents’ needs with cultural sensitivity and practical knowledge. Moreover, you will be prepared to plan your own research on parenthood and work on your first scientific publication.
Application Process
Before you start your application process, please prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages, format A4, .pdf)
- Cover letter describing why you would like to participate in the course (max. 1 page, format A4, .pdf)
- CEFR B2 English proficiency certificate, we accept the following certificates: TOEFL, CAE, IELTS, or FCE. Alternatively, a letter confirming your English skills, printed on your home university’s letterhead, signed by one of your university lecturers.
Application deadline: March 10, 2026.
To apply, follow this link and fill in the application form: https://english.swps.pl/we-the-university/our-news-and-events/conferences-and-seminars/35020-challenges-of-contemporary-parenthood
Funding
Students from ERUA partner universities, other than SWPS University, who are accepted to the program by SWPS University, can apply for travel and accommodation funding at their home university’s ERUA Office.
Organizers
- SWPS University
- European Reform University Alliance
The project is co-funded by the European Union.
