Motherhood Through the Eyes of Turkish Mothers With Young Children

Abstract

Motherhood represents a significant phenomenon in the lives of many women, exerting influence not only on their personal experiences but also on the developmental processes of their children. The perception and meaning of motherhood can vary widely across different cultural contexts. This study aims to investigate Turkish mothers' perspectives on the role of motherhood through a phenomenological approach. The research involved a study group of 40 mothers residing in the city centre of Ankara, Türkiye, with infants aged 0 to 36 months. Data were gathered via semi-structured interviews using interview forms developed by the researchers. The collected data were subjected to content analysis and categorised accordingly. Findings reveal that Turkish mothers experience both positive and negative emotions concurrently regarding motherhood. Mothers viewed motherhood as a source of happiness; conversely, a prevalent concern among the participants was the fear of losing their babies. The participants noted significant changes in their lives due to motherhood. Furthermore, it was observed that families played a crucial supportive role for mothers in adapting to these changes during both prenatal and postnatal periods. The study suggests that motherhood, a biologically inherent aspect specific to women, is often perceived as a role laden with societal pressures and challenges. This perception is influenced by societal expectations and the roles imposed on women. Therefore, it is essential to provide comprehensive support to mothers throughout the prenatal and postnatal periods to address these challenges effectively.