Abstract
Social support is essential during early motherhood. Societal changes have altered the support networks of mothers of young children, placing them at greater risk of social isolation. The aim of this review was to explore the research related to the experience of social support for mothers of young children to understand how to best promote social connections for the current generation of mothers. A systematic search of eight electronic databases through EBSCOhost was undertaken to identify Australian research published from 2013 onwards. No study design limits were applied. Research which focussed into understanding the social support of mothers with children 0-5years and had outcomes related to mothers experiences were included. Fifteen studies were included. Both face-to-face and online support provided benefits to mothers of young children in terms of shared experiences and reciprocity; trust and intimacy; community connectedness and; mental well-being. While online communities offered immediacy of access to social support, contemporary mothers continued to value social support accessed in face-to-face settings. Accessing face-to-face support was a challenge for young mothers and those in new housing areas. Face-to-face programs continue to promote the health of contemporary mothers; however, online settings provide avenues for alternative or complimentary support. There is a need to further develop support programs for vulnerable and isolated mothers. SO WHAT?: Social support is essential for mothers of young children and opportunities to enhance social connections are important to boosting mental well-being. While face-to-face programs still need to be provided, services should consider including online options to promote the health of contemporary Australian mothers.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.