Towards Resilient Working Parents and Their Children in 2040: Learning from the Perspective of Today's Youth

The data collection in this project followed a participatory and iterative approach, combining creative workshops with youth and learning network meetings involving youth researchers and experts from policy, practice, and academia. Key data collected included: 43 youths (aged 12–18, predominantly girls from stable home environments) participated in dream, photo, and roadmap workshops to explore their perspectives on working parenthood and mental health in 2040, and to translate these into potential transition pathways. Insights from these workshops were systematically documented in minutes, reports, and observations, supplemented with thematic analysis of written letters, mood boards, and discussions. At the same time, the learning network meetings provided additional qualitative data, such as suggestions, feedback, and joint reflections, which allowed the research process to be continuously adjusted and validated. The process evaluation aimed to investigate the extent to which the voices of young people were meaningfully heard within the project. Various data collection methods were used, focusing on the experiences of youth researchers, their coaches, participating youths, and learning network members: Mentimeter evaluations after the creative workshops, completed by the 43 participating youths (aged 12–18), addressing content, format, and perceived involvement. Individual interviews with the four youth researchers (30–60 minutes each) regarding their roles, responsibilities, and influence. A dyadic interview with the two youth coaches (approx. 45 minutes) about guidance, collaboration, and autonomy. Reflective discussions with learning network members about their perceptions of youth participation and the integration of youth insights into the project.