The Becoming of a Mother: Psychological World of First – Time Mothers

Abstract

Background: The present study delves into the realm of first-time motherhood, the transition to which is complex and multifaceted, involving numerous emotional and psychological adjustments. Examining the mental representations and maternal intuition experiences of first-time mothers can provide valuable insights into their perceptions, experiences, and challenges during this period. Method: The study used a purposive sampling method, selecting nine first-time mothers who had given birth in the past year. Data collection involved semi-structured in-depth interviews, analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results: What emerged from this exploration was that women primarily constructed the following representations about motherhood. Firstly, A Mother’s confirmation to the maternal imperative built by the society highlights her passive participation in the marginalization of her personal desires. Secondly, Mothers experience a constant push and pull between the profound desire for connection with their child and the fear of potential loss exposing the emotional self-preservation they engage in. Thirdly, Mothers have different representations of the intuition that they share with their babies. For mothers who’s spiritual belief takes the front seat, look at it as a gift from God, for mothers who have a scientific outlook to life look at it and approach it accordingly. Their meaning making of this experience is in line with the meaning they make out of their lives largely. Lastly, Mothers enjoy the exclusivity in the relationship they share with their infants, accounting for their sense of self as a mother and the responsibility to take care of their baby. Conclusion: Motherhood therefore is not a singular experience; rather, it is plural by nature. It becomes pertinent to tap into such plural maternities, to gather, explore and understand this individualized psychological space of first-time mothers, highlighting the importance of a personalized approach to maternity.