Identifying and investigating social and psychological support for women during their transition to motherhood in Malta

Abstract

This research explores the social and psychological needs of mothers in Malta during their initial phases into the journey of motherhood. This was done by listening to the narratives of eight local mothers. Social ideals and constructions of motherhood and good mothering permeate the lives of families in Malta and condition mothers to the standards set by society. Therefore, thematic analysis is used within a social constructionist epistemology. These prevailing motherhood ideologies, cause mothers to experience overwhelming feelings of guilt, shame, stress, anxiety, and also depression, especially if adequate support is not given to this cohort. Therefore, support of a practical, informational and emotional nature needs to be available to mothers in order for the mothers to better cater for the demands that the mothering role entails, for the benefit of the mother, her offspring and her close kin. The latter comes with the premise that if the family unit grows together in a supportive environment that is conducive to the members’ healthy development, the positive culture that emanates from such an approach is a cost-effective investment in the future of the Maltese society. A qualitative research method was adopted to gather information using semi-structured interviews. Eight mothers shared their experience and their perceptions of motherhood, whilst raising what in their opinion lacks in terms of social and psychological support to mothers in Malta. The most commonly reported issue was the lack of initial support given in proximity to giving birth, specifically the insufficient attention that is given to the mother’s mental health and wellbeing even by the midwives, whose prime focus would be the physical healing of the mother and the baby’s growth and development, in that, it is in line with the standard physical milestones.