Motherland

The Lived Experiences of New Mothers Attending Community Groups in Developing a Sense of Self and Belonging

Dr Amanda Norman PhD, Jan Etienne, Dr Jan Etienne PhD

• Publisher: Lived Places Publishing
• Year: 2024
• ISBN:
  9781915734907
• Edition: 1
• Topic: Social Sciences
• Subtopic: Gender Studies
• Index: Social Sciences

In what ways can attending community groups help to develop a sense of self and belonging for new mothers as they navigate parenthood?

Using examples of lived experiences from mothers past and present, Motherland invites readers to explore how community groups have shaped and supported the social identity of their members.

Author Amanda Norman considers maternal care beyond the home and the importance of listening to new mothers as they share their lived experiences. Motherland explores women's community groups from historical and contemporary perspectives, and illustrates the power of a collective group and social identity in shaping mothers' relationships with their infants and each other.

Reflecting on the power of social identity and the importance of community work in supporting parents and families, this book is ideal reading for students of Gender Studies and related courses, Healthcare, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Early Childhood Studies, and new parents.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Half Title
• Title Page
• Dedication
• Copyright Page
• Contents
• Introduction
• 1 A historical lens to explore the value of mothers’ groups
• 2 Creating communities that care
• 3 Mothers’ virtual connections and in-​person connections
• 4 Contemporary community care
• 5 New mothers and circles and spiritual groups
• End note
• Recommended discussion topics
• Case study
• References
• Recommended further reading
• Index