Negative Aspects of Nonrealization of Motherhood – Opinions and Sentiments of Childless Women

Abstract

Abstract The issues presented in this publication are situated within the framework of qualitative research. The research concerns negative aspects stemming from not experiencing motherhood present in the narrative of women aged 35-42 years old. The aim of the research is identifying the disadvantages of childlessness as perceived by mature women. The research was performed on 38 women. The criterion of the research sample selection, apart from age, was being unmarried (a woman’s marital status was “unmarried”, “divorced” or “widow”; women in cohabitational relationships were not excluded) and childless. The surveyed women were therefore asked the question: Do you notice some losses resulting from not functioning in the role of a mother? On the basis of central topics, i.e. topics that prevailed in the interviews, 5 response categories were determined: discrimination in the workplace, social stigma, discrimination in public space, not following the road leading to happiness and fulfilment, and loneliness in old age.