Motherhood Ideologies and Role Changes in Young Mothers: An Exploratory Study

The current study explored motherhood ideologies and role changes in young mothers through individual, semi-structured interviews with 16 first-time Keralite mothers with babies less than three years old. A thematic analysis of the data showed the presence of motherhood myths, oppressive motherhood ideologies, and their impacts on mothers' lives on different levels. These impacts were further intertwined with the masking of the complexity of motherhood. Young mothers employed several techniques to balance their multiple roles, and planning and preparation were found to be significant among them. The findings of the study contributed to unraveling the glorification of motherhood and its negative impacts on mothers. This study has implications for planning programs for young mothers and families to prepare them for the transition process and to adapt to it. Young mothers need psychological support along with gynecological backing throughout their journey of motherhood transition. Workplaces can enhance support for employed mothers with psychological services, empathetic policies, childcare leave, and baby-friendly environments. In therapeutic settings, understanding motherhood’s psychological impact can inform effective coping strategies, family counseling, and suitable interventions.