Developing self-concept clarity: A challenging but striving task for young vulnerable mothers

Most studies on young mothers focus on the challenges they face in adjusting to motherhood and the risks these challenges pose for their children. However, emerging research highlights the distinct developmental challenges young mothers experience, separate from their maternal role. This study explores how vulnerable young mothers define themselves as young women navigating emerging adulthood, with a focus on self-concept clarity—the ability to describe oneself in positive and consistent ways. Achieving self-concept clarity is particularly challenging for vulnerable young mothers who have often faced adversity and trauma. This qualitative study involved interviews with 20 vulnerable young mothers living in affordable social housing tailored to their needs. The findings reveal that most participants struggled to define themselves outside the framework of motherhood. Three key self-concept themes emerged: an undefined sense of self shaped by both their transition to motherhood and past adverse experiences; a fragile, negatively impacted sense of self; and a sense of self aimed at resilience but still in development. These results highlight the need to view vulnerable young mothers’ sense of self as distinct from their social role as mothers, ensuring their personal development needs are not overlooked. By shedding light on the unique identity challenges faced by vulnerable young mothers, this study underscores the importance of support systems that address both their personal development and their roles as caregivers.