Stories of matrescence : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Science in Psychology - Health Psychology, Massey University, New Zealand

Abstract

In Aotearoa, maternal mental health statistics are bleak, with the leading cause of maternal death being suicide. Maternal mental health has far-reaching effects, not just for a mother, but her children, whānau and the wider community. With maternal health being directly related to the outcomes of children, it is time to prioritise the health of our mothers. Mothers are not being supported as they need to be and rather than focusing on expensive psychiatric services, low cost, multidisciplinary, community-led interventions may be the answer. Matrescence, the developmental stage that a woman goes through in her transition to motherhood is largely unacknowledged within our culture and yet, could offer an opportunity to reframe motherhood as a time of growth and gain, rather than sacrifice and struggle. This research aims to explore the transition to motherhood for first-time mothers and to consider their experiences in relation to various domains of change and through the lens of matrescence. As motherhood is inherently stressful, the study also identifies perinatal maternal stress in the stories of participants and reviews how it is conceptualised. Qualitative research was used with a narrative theory framework to capture depth and context in the experiences of participants. The findings support the belief that the transition to motherhood is a developmental stage. Unrealistic expectations were identified as potentially harmful to positive adjustment; therefore, maternal education should be reviewed. Life complexities can be extensive and make it difficult for a mother to adapt without support. Effective support is essential, but there is no one size fits all and it can come from a range of places. The value of matrescence is evident as a strength-based framework that guides mothers through the transition, that understands the natural process of change and adaption. Recognising matrescence is not only important for mothers but society as a whole, as it provides a specific language to acknowledge the transition to motherhood as a vulnerable period requiring timely and accessible support. As knowledge of matrescence grows there is potential for awareness and change at a societal and political level, where the work of mothers can become valued and honoured by all.