From Protection to Participation: Understanding Parents' Attitudes Towards Children's Rights in Türkiye

ABSTRACT This study evaluates parents' attitudes towards and awareness of children's rights in Türkiye and examines their associations with parental and household sociodemographic characteristics, including parental education, employment status and household income. Understanding parental perceptions is crucial, given families' key role in advocating for children's rights. This descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted between May and October 2025. Parents were included in the research through online platforms, school parent groups and social media channels. Data from 828 parents were analysed using a sociodemographic information form and the Parental Attitude Scale for Children's Rights (PASCR), which assesses Care and Protection (CP), State Assurance and Support (SAS) and Self‐Determination (SD). The findings show strong parental support for CP but more limited support for SAS and SD. Mothers scored significantly higher than fathers on CP. Non‐working mothers scored higher than working mothers on SD. These results indicate that parents' understanding of children's rights is primarily focused on protection. To promote a more holistic, rights‐based approach, family‐centred educational programmes and social policies that raise awareness about child participation and autonomy are essential.