A paradigm for the analysis of childbearing motivations of married women prior to birth of the first child.

Abstract

Book reviewed in this article: Childbearing motivations involve a constellation of socially defined and idiosyncratic meanings, some of which may not be recognized by the individual. A systematic delineation of the multiplicity of meanings related to childbearing provides a framework for investigating motivational conflicts that may thwart childbearing plans and contribute to problems of conception, pregnancy, childbirth, and childrearing.

Freud's penis—baby equation: Exploratory tests of a controversial theory

“…Studies and reviews of the work on motivation for pregnancy have revealed a variety of potential motives (Flapan, 1969;Pohlman, 1969;Fisher, 1973). Yet, one of the main motives for motherhood has revolved around the woman's wish to establish her identity and perpetuate her identity into the future (Flapan, 1969;Pohlman, 1969;Fisher, 1973). The achievement-oriented aspects of this motivation are readily apparent.…”

“…The achievement-oriented aspects of this motivation are readily apparent. Moreover, it has been noted that the future representation of self may be a means of compensating for present inadequacy feelings (Flapan, 1969).…”

Family Size: Implicit Policies and Assumed Psychological Outcomes

“…Perception of and responses to societal, parental, and peer pressures are demonstrated in such cited reasons for reproduction as: Non-reproduction is a social sin (Barnes, 1970); shame is bestowed on those who do not reproduce (Harris, 1972); it is essential to fulfill one's cultural obligations of settling down and assuming adult responsibilities through parenthood (Maxwell & Montgomery, 1969); parenthood is required for social approval (Safilios-Rothschild, 1970); and parenthood protects one from social isolation. Role observation is reflected in such reasons as: to demonstrate sexual maturity and feminity (Flapan, 1969;Wyatt, 1967); to achieve self-esteem, status, and recognition (Silverman & Silverman, 1971;Wyatt, 1967); to achieve power, prosperity, and status through one's children (Gould, 1970); and to share and give parental love (Maxwell & Montgomery, 1969). Undifferentiated need-satisfaction statements are reflected in responses which relate to being full, complete, and happy only if one is a parent (Flapan, 1969;Hoffman & Hoffman, 1973;Fawcett & Arnold, 1973).…”

Acceptance of Pregnancy

“…However, the reverse is not necessarily true; if a woman accepts being pregnant, it cannot be assumed that she accepts the child and motherhood. The woman's satisfaction with the pregnancy may mean that she feels a sense of biological, feminine, or societal role fulfillment (Flapan, 1969;Pohlman, 1969;Wenner et al, 1969) without wanting the baby. It also is possible that the baby and motherhood are desired, but that the pregnancy itself is resisted.…”