Perceptions of Risk and Protection among French Immigrant Mothers in Israel

French immigrant mothers were interviewed about their perceptions of risk and protection in the framework of parenting in Israel. The findings emphasize the differences in parenting styles between the cultures. Participants regarded French education as stricter and more controlling and felt that raising children in the flexible and confusing boundaries context of Israel might put their children at risk. Additionally, this research discusses the struggles of being an immigrant parent. Even though challenges are evident, French mothers believe their children are thriving in Israel more than they would have in France. This study offers new knowledge about the French immigrant population in Israel, gives us a better understanding about the cultural context of children of French-born parents growing up in Israel, and stresses the importance of understanding cultural perceptions as a basis for communication about risk following cultural transition.