Maternal Adaptation in the Role of Caring for and Rearing 12-Month-old abies

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the maternal role of caring for and rearing 12-month-old babies based on Winnicott´s concepts. Twenty-fi ve primiparous mothers answered interviews about the baby's development and motherhood. Thematic analysis showed that the maternal role of caring for was marked by manifestations of dependence and independence, by the development transitions, and by maternal sensitivity to the signs and rhythm of the baby. Regarding the role of rearing, mothers reported diff erent strategies when they needed to establish the baby´s limits. They also had doubts about the best way to rear the baby, since he/she often opposed the maternal limits. In summary, at 12 months, the specifi city of maternal role was related to the subtle adjustment of the mother to the more active rhythm of the baby, being emotionally available to his/her new discoveries, but also allowing his/her experiences of frustration.