A joy or a hassle: child health care in a multi-ethnic society.

This paper draws on data from a qualitative study carried out of 33 households and 28 health visitors to explore mothers' perspectives on childcare. The sample of mothers reflects the multi-ethnic character of the inner London area they live in. The paper explores the extent to which these women, from a wide range of backgrounds, shared common priorities, concerns and perspectives on childcare and childhood; and examines differences between groups of women and factors associated with patterns of difference. It concludes with the challenge this sample of women presents to social attitudes, policies and practices in the UK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]