Mothers living apart from their children

Non‐resident motherhood: managing a threatened identity

“…Existing studies suggest that dominant cultural norms, which imply that mothers should be coresident with children, appear to make the experience of non‐resident motherhood a particularly difficult and painful experience for women (Greif & Pabst 1988; Arditti & Madden‐Derdrich 1993; Herrerias 1995; Babcock 1997). Feelings of loss and guilt may be particularly acute, and because of negative social judgements, non‐resident mothers are often socially isolated and lacking in support, which can further impede their adjustment process (Fischer & Cardea 1981; Fischer 1983). Internal conflicts may also arise as a result of non‐resident mothers believing they are not fulfilling their ‘natural’ role, and many experience guilt, shame, anxiety and depression (Rosenblum 1986; Greif & Pabst 1988; Arditti & Madden‐Derdrich 1993).…”

Separated parents’ experiences with the Australian school system: an overview

“…They argued that this assumption marginalised non-residential mothers by ignoring the fact that non-custodial mothers ‘also seek greater involvement in their children’s lives following separation’ (Baker & Bishop, 2005 , p. 206). While non-residential mothers and fathers experience similar challenges (Thompson & Laible, 1999 ), non-residential mothers face additional stressors, such as social stigma (Greif, 1997 ), negative treatment from family and friends (Fischer & Cardea, 1981 ), and greater financial disparity (Arditti, 1994 ). Baker and Bishop also posit that despite the extensive literature around the importance of parental involvement in a child’s education, there is little understanding of non-residential parents’ participation in, and engagement with, the school community.…”