"Good Mother": Studies on Mother's Day Show Utopian Expectations of Mothers

Although family models are becoming more diverse and the demand for self-optimization for women in society - including self-realization in the labor market and financial independence - has increased, the social norms surrounding the ideal of a "good mother" in Austria have hardly changed. "Women remain under pressure as potential 'superhumans' and 'miracle workers'," explained Eva-Maria Schmidt from the Institute for Family Research at the University of Vienna during an online press conference by "Discourse. The Science Network". The sociologist has examined the normative expectations of mothers in group discussions and interviews with mothers and other people across Austria throughout society.

Guilt as a Constant Companion for Every Mother

It becomes apparent that a "good mother" in the widespread ideal should take care of her child as much and as long as possible after the birth of the child and throughout its entire childhood. The time of presence and availability for the child is equated with "motherhood." Additionally, the focus on the child should bring joy and satisfaction to the mothers. To be the socially expected happy, positive, and relaxed mother, negative feelings are suppressed, not shown, or attempted to be changed. Both the mothers themselves and their environment are quite aware that the expectations are unrealistic, according to Schmidt. Nevertheless, guilt is a constant companion for mothers, and feelings of guilt are often even expected.

This is indeed an Austrian peculiarity, said the sociologist. The prevailing ideal of freedom of choice inevitably puts mothers in a strong dilemma, and they must legitimize their decision themselves. In countries like Denmark or France, where early institutional childcare is strongly established, there is no guilt. Interestingly, social norms in Austria run through all social classes. Differences existed in gender, education, and income only in how explicitly women who did not conform to the image of the "good mother" were criticized.

High Part-Time Rate Among Mothers Due to Traditional Role Distribution

The consequence of social pressure on women is, in addition to low fertility, the high part-time rate in international comparison. Among mothers of children in primary school age, it is 73 percent, while among fathers it is only eight percent. The reason for this is the large gap between the widespread desire for a quick return to the labor market and the traditional assignment of responsibilities between mothers and fathers, explains sociologist Bettina Stadler from the University of Graz.

These are represented by the parents themselves, but especially also by their environment and many employers. The re-entry is further complicated by still existing gaps in childcare offerings. Therefore, more flexible working time models are desirable, where working hours can be temporarily increased or reduced, as well as more flexible opening hours at childcare facilities that are compatible with increasingly flexible working hours, according to Stadler.

(APA/Red.)

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