The Impact of Migration Background on Parenting in German Families and Its Implications for Family Counseling

This thesis examines the influence of migration background (Migrationshintergrund) on parenting within German families and its implications for family counseling. Building on current literature, it outlines how cultural norms and parenting goals may differ between families with and without a migration background. These differences often relate to broader societal factors such as socioeconomic status, educational access, and experiences of integration. A key focus is placed on the tensions that arise when majority-society counselling frameworks meet culturally diverse populations. To contrast theoretical perspectives with practical experience, the thesis includes a qualitative interview with a practicing family counsellor. The interview highlights central challenges, including linguistic barriers, differing family structures, parenting goals and systemic challenges.The findings suggest that while diversity in parenting is increasingly recognized, counselling structures must adapt further to meet the specific needs of families with migration backgrounds. This requires not only language-sensitive approaches but also greater cultural awareness, professional humility and support from wider societal structures.