This master's thesis examines the characteristics and vision of family centers in Slovenia. Research on family centers in other countries indicates that they play a crucial supportive role. While these centers vary in terms of their specific needs and the overall national system, they share many commonalities. However, there is a lack of research on Slovenian family centers and their activities, which motivated the present study.
The theoretical part of the thesis defines the concept of family and explores the changes in family life in the postmodern era. It also touches upon family policy in Slovenia. Furthermore, the characteristics of family centers and relevant practices from abroad are discussed. Some data on family centers in Slovenia are also provided in the theoretical section.
This qualitative empirical research aimed to investigate how family centers operate in Slovenia and what their future vision entails. The study approached this topic from three perspectives: the political standpoint represented by the co-funding institution of selected programs (Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities), the users of family centers, and the program providers themselves. Four centers that received funding from the Ministry for the period 2017–2020 were selected for the study. The sample consisted of four program providers, 20 center users (five from each center), and one individual from the political sphere, specifically employed at the Ministry mentioned earlier, responsible for the functioning of family centers. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing semi- structured interviews as the primary data collection method, followed by qualitative analysis.
The results revealed that the perspectives of program providers, center users, and the political representative were largely aligned although some differences were also observed. All parties agreed that family centers are recognized as valuable support and assistance resource for families and their members. The research findings provide a clearer understanding of how family centers operate and offer insights from multiple perspectives, as well as indicating the desired vision for the future.
|