Abstract
This article investigates key triggers for mothers’ anger during the COVID-19 pandemic and some of the positive and negative consequences of its expression online. It uses the UK online parenting forum Mumsnet as a research context and source of data. Our findings support previous research into mothers’ anger during COVID-19 that suggests that the pandemic has both exacerbated longstanding sources of conflict and created new ones within their homes. This anger is frequently repressed because women need to continue to work and cohabit with the colleagues and family members who have caused this anger. However, we also identify a further trigger for mothers’ anger – their frustration at the government's perceived inaction and mis- or even dis-information about the pandemic. This anger can be exacerbated by mainstream media reports and also the sharing of suspicions and complaints on online forums such as Mumsnet. Mumsnet therefore offers a safe space for the venting of women's anger during lockdown, but also a place where feelings of anger can be perpetuated and perhaps even aroused.
Highlights
The COVID-19 pandemic has both exacerbated and highlighted the range of social and economic burdens placed on parents, but in particular mothers
While previous research into the impact of COVID-19 on mothers and families has focused on the disruption of the domestic household, analysis of Mumsnet threads on the pandemic demonstrates that no clear distinction can be made between the different issues that concerned and angered Mumsnetters
Discussion on the threads ranged back and forth between the micro and the macro – concerns about government statements immediately followed by worry about a local family who had returned from skiing in Italy or irritation at a husband’s dismissive attitude towards a poster’s fears
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic has both exacerbated and highlighted the range of social and economic burdens placed on parents, but in particular mothers. While women have continued to use social media for general support, news and networking, this article focuses on its use for the expression of the particular emotion of anger in relation to the pandemic, exploring the triggers for and expressions of mothers’ anger and some of the positive and negative consequences of its expression online. It uses the UK online parenting forum Mumsnet as a research context and source of data. It is a place where feelings of anger can be perpetuated and perhaps even enflamed
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