Motherhood in the lives of women with physical disabilities

This study focuses on the intersection of mothering and physical disability. More specifically, it explores the lives of women with physical disabilities who are either mothers, considering motherhood, or have considered it at some point in their lives. My own life experience as a mother with a physical disability provided the impetus for the research. The purpose of the study is to explore the meaning of motherhood for women with physical disabilities and their mothering-related experiences, issues, and priorities. Data for the research were gathered via 26 in-depth interviews with 13 participants and 4 focus groups with women who are at different stages in relation to motherhood. Over half of those interviewed are mothers with children at different stages of development; the rest are women who are either in the process of weighing their reproductive options or have already decided to remain childless. All are women who live with a physical disability; namely, a mobility impairment. In interviews and focus groups, study participants discussed the various messages they have received over the years with respect to sexuality and motherhood. Many had experienced a host of invalidating messages about their ability to attract a sexual partner and to become mothers. Some grew up in families where their sexuality was either ignored, undetermined, or actively discouraged. Parental reticence to acknowledge sexuality was perceived by most as attempts to protect a disabled daughter from sexual rejection and exclusion. Almost all participants who were disabled as children had experienced some level of exclusion by peers in the social and sexual arena. Also included in the research is the decision-making process of motherhood in the context of a physical disability. Participants elaborated on some of the issues they are presently considering, or have considered in the past, as they contemplate their reproductive options. The study gives a voice to the desire to have children that some have expressed, and to the challenges and barriers that they envision, along with their strong belief that a woman's happiness and well being is not contingent upon having children. A number of women talked about the rich and fulfilling lives they lead as women without children and theorized about the importance of separating motherhood from female identity. Participants with children explored their lives as mothers with physical disabilities. Along with some of the usual joys and tribulations that are part and parcel of parenting, specific disability-related issues were shared and explored. Promoting children's growth and enhancing their well-being was a major consideration for mothers. Participants discussed the behavioural strategies that they enlist, their attempts to ensure that children's needs are consistently met, and the types of formal and informal supports that they have. Whereas all participants demonstrated a high level of commitment to their children, they varied in the level of support that is available to them, and in the number and magnitude of stressors that they face. Predictably, the availability of supportive networks is associated with better adjustment for children and families. The dissertation concludes with a discussion of wellness, in fight of risk and protective factors encountered by women with physical disabilities. Based on sources of vulnerability and strength I formulate possible recommendations for action at the micro, meso, and macro levels. The recommendations pertain to girls with disabilities, women who are not mothers, and mothers with disabilities and their families.