Women's Studies International Forum
Volume 34, Issue 2, 2011, Pages 91-100

Motherhood journey through the eyes of immigrant women (Article)

Tsai T.-I.* , Chen I.-J. , Huang S.-L.
  • a School of Nursing, National Yang Ming University, Taiwan
  • b School of Nursing, National Yang Ming University, Taiwan
  • c Institute of Public Health, National Yang Ming University, Taiwan

Abstract

This paper explores mothering practices and experiences among Southeast Asian women residing in Taiwan. This qualitative study used a series of focus group sessions with photographic documentation to collect information. The transition to motherhood illustrates a dynamics process of gender and international relations and hierarchies. Maternal practices and challenges of these immigrant women were organized into five domains: "A mother is prized because of her son", "I am a mother, not a paid nanny", "Raising children, Taiwanese style", "Shared mothering", and "Immigrant mothering-More challenges, more promises". The experiences and adaptation of mothering are mediated by a family's socio-economic situation, the power dynamic within the family, and the support and acceptance received from the dominant society. These findings have important implications for healthcare services and immigration policies. © 2011 Elsevier B.V.

Author Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Index Keywords

maternal care immigrant Taiwan socioeconomic conditions womens status

Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79953038213&doi=10.1016%2fj.wsif.2010.12.002&partnerID=40&md5=5b9459fd8d7740ec6b6c2f4905a5141f

DOI: 10.1016/j.wsif.2010.12.002
ISSN: 02775395
Cited by: 13
Original Language: English