The Marte Meo Method as a Means of Supporting New Adoptive Parents

Abstract

The study discussed here by Gunnel Osterman, Anders Möller and Ingegerd Wirtberg aimed to find out if any observable themes or patterns recur when using the Marte Meo (MM) method with adoptive parents, and if the parents feel that working with this method helps them to interact with their child. The study used qualitative methods and comprised two parts: use of the MM method with couples who had adopted their first child within the past two months, and semi-structured interviews with the parents. The study group consisted of seven parent couples who had adopted children aged 5–15 months from overseas. The principle of the MM method is for the child's need to be approached at its own tempo and rhythm. It encourages and motivates the parents to adjust their interplay to the child's actual behaviour, leading to better adjustment to the child's tempo and rhythm. This is important because initial video filming reveals that most parents adopt a tempo that is too fast for their child. During this initial period, the MM method may be one way of working to meet adoptive parents' need for advice and support in their efforts to be sensitive to the developmental needs of their child.