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. 2024 Jul 1;33(3):113-126.
doi: 10.1891/JPE-2023-0017.

Online Game-Based Parental Groups: The Experiences of First-Time Expectant Parents

Katja Kokkinen, Kaisa Malinen, Eija Sevon, Raija Hämäläinen, Anna Rönkä

Online Game-Based Parental Groups: The Experiences of First-Time Expectant Parents

Katja Kokkinen et al. J Perinat Educ. .

Abstract

Although evidence exists on the use of gamification and serious games in many fields, game-based methods are a relatively new phenomenon in the family services sector. This study focused on the implementation of game-based online parental groups organized for first-time expectant parents and participants' experiences of playing together. In total, 26 Finnish first-time expectant parents participated in the study. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Three main themes describing the expectant parents' experiences were related to the game as a stimulator of discussion, the experience of gaming, and special features of online group discussion. It is concluded that playing online learning games with others can lower the threshold to participate and offer new possibilities for interactive parental education.

Keywords: parenting; pregnancy; program development; qualitative methods; teaching tools.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have no relevant financial interest or affiliations with any commercial interests related to the subjects discussed within this article.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.. Expectant parents’ experiences of participating in the online game-based parental group session.
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