Lived mothering: Examining how daily care-giving affects health among urban working-class women

Women play a critical role in the nation's health by providing the majority of unpaid and informal healthcare support within families yet few studies have examined the impact of daily mothering on women's own health practices. This study examined the challenges to self-care that arise for mothers and identified strategies they employ to meet these challenges. Participants (N=11) were interviewed about perceptions of their personal and family health and the daily contexts in which health and health practices occur. This presentation focuses on how themes of time demands, stress, and responsibilities affect women's perceived health status and daily health practices. Although participants' global definitions of health were holistic (physical, mental and spiritual domains) most used a narrow definition (eating and exercise) when discussing their own health practices. Most women reported that family history of disease was a major concern for their own health and that of their children. Confidence in maintaining healthy practices appeared low while perceived personal responsibility and guilt appeared high. Despite identifying a variety of social and structural barriers, most mothers blamed themselves for not “making the time.” As a result mothers felt unable to take time for themselves, even when ill, in order to remain available for their families. Social support in terms of spiritual engagement seemed the primary means of coping with daily challenges, yet several women expressed a desire for someone who could emotionally support them as they strive to meet their own health goals. Implications for family-based health promotion programs are discussed.