ABSTRACT
This chapter critically appraises the circumstances of women's transition into motherhood, based on social norms and cultural expectations. It proposes that some women find the transition difficult because of the prestige afforded to economic advantage. The chapter considers political solutions and ultimately a radical change in maternal and societal expectations of motherhood alongside a change to the social infrastructure in order to support the mothering role. It acknowledges the need for mothers to be acclaimed by their family, peers and society. They are an integral part to the continuation of any society; therefore, by default, society has a responsibility to support the mothering role. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following childbirth appears to be increasing in mothers, manifested as a form of extreme anxiety. A woman often gains a greater understanding of her own mother when she takes on this role herself, and often their relationship changes at this point.
