First-time mothers’ perceptions of workplace social support: An exploratory qualitative study

Abstract

The goal of this study was to explore the perceptions of first-time mothers regarding the social support received from the workplace during pregnancy, maternity leave, and upon returning to work. The participants included 19 first-time mothers (ages 18 to 40 years). The participants completed focus groups discussion on their perceptions of the social support they received at work during pregnancy, maternity leave, and on their return to work. Thematic analysis of the data suggested the mothers to perceive types of support received from the organisation to be mostly positive because of the flexible work arrangements afforded to them. The support from work supervisors was minimal and uncaring, whereas that by co-workers was characterised by excitement about the pregnancy. Overall, the first-time mothers perceived more positive support from co-workers than from management.