Přehled o publikaci

This presentation explores maternal regret in the Czech context through qualitative in-depth interviews with ten mothers. Inspired by Orna Donath’s work and using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, the study identified eight main themes: expectations versus reality of motherhood, loneliness, loss of self, manifestations and temporality of regret, regret-related emotions, motherhood surveillance, the question of a second child, and trying to be a good parent. The findings show that maternal regret can coexist with deep love for one’s child and a strong commitment to caregiving. The study highlights the importance of opening discussion about taboo and ambivalent maternal experiences and reducing the stigma surrounding them.