The Juggling Act of Working Motherhood

Recently, the University of Exeter carried out a study that focussed on the attitudes of almost 300 workers regarding a fictional female employee who was expecting a baby and her intentions towards the duration of her maternity leave and return to work. The majority of the participants were in full time employment and did not have children of their own. After reading, they then had to feedback about their perception of her and her intentions. 

The stories presented ended in one of two ways, the woman either took her statutory entitled maternity leave (presumably 12 months) or she returned to work not long after giving birth. The stories were set to reflect the real trials and tribulations of new mothers and the challenges they face. The focus of the study was to ask the participants to evaluate the woman in each story as a mother and as an employee.

Surprisingly, for those who read the story where the woman returned to work quickly following the birth, it was determined that she was judged negatively as a mother, and those who read the story where she took her entitled maternity leave she was viewed negatively as a colleague.

The conclusion that the study draws is that it is almost impossible for a woman to gain the same level of respect in the workplace as male colleagues or women without children as mothers in the workplace are either considered less committed or less caring as a parent.   

Carrie-Ann Randall, a Lawson-West Employment expert comments:

“We have to try to remember that this study focusses on perception and not fact, however as a working mother myself whom felt first hand the struggles faced with getting the balance correct between assisting your colleagues/employer and showing your dedication and commitment verses caring for and engaging with your child very difficult. 

As a working mother you have the challenge of putting in 100% time and effort into your child. It is new and alien for us all and the added perception that you are no longer committed is difficult, again I reiterate that this is purely perception and not fact. It is fair to say that your once primary focus (work) becomes something that has to share the limelight. You do not want to fade into the background and you want to be there sharing in the growth and ambition of your employer whilst giving 100% to your child, both of which are extremely important to you. The struggle ultimately comes down to getting the correct balance. Openness and honesty with your employer is crucial. 

If you want to take time to bond and care for your baby or you cannot undertake the tasks you once did with ease, speak with your employer so you can work together to find a solution. As in my experience, you will most likely find that your employer is fully committed to you and assisting the time you and your child have together whilst remaining a valued and important part of the team.”

If you have been, or are being made to feel uncomfortable regarding your right to maternity leave or you are struggling with returning full time – don’t feel you have to deal with the situation alone. If you are not being listened to you may wish to seek legal advice as you may be being discriminated against. 

Please call a member of our Employment team who are friendly, approachable, patient and real people. You can meet with them at any of our three offices in Leicester, Wigston and Market Harborough, contact us on 0116 212 1000 / 01858 445 480.”

 

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