A lot of Irish mums don’t feel valued by society, study reveals

The research surveyed over 800 mothers and grandmothers.

The majority of Irish mums don’t feel like they’re appreciated in their role, according to a study. Just 12 percent of those surveyed felt they were appreciated and valued by society despite the majority of those asked saying they felt fulfilled in their role. Maia Dunphy launched the report and said she was struck by the results.

“As a mother, a lot of the findings struck a chord with me. “Motherhood is a wonderful, life-changing and hugely positive experience, but as this report’s findings show, it can also be challenging. “The vast majority of mother’s relish and enjoy their role, but the fact that they don’t feel valued for the work they do should make us all sit up and evaluate how mothers are viewed and respected by society and most importantly, what can be done to change this.”

The research also seemed to suggest a change in the working patterns of mothers, with an increasing number wanting to stay at home to be with their children.

“The fact that two-out-of-three of today’s mothers would like to be stay-at-home mothers perhaps indicates a shift from the attitudes of their own mothers, many of whom encouraged their daughters to pursue a career outside the home. “Our society must consider how we can facilitate mothers (and fathers, too) in having greater time at home with their young children.”

The study carried out by Sudocrem found that two in three mums would hope to stay at home to raise their children but only if they were financially able to do so.

“Highlighting the attitudes and experiences of today’s Irish mothers, and theirs allows wider society to understand how mothers and their families can be better supported. “The report’s findings shine a light on many of the critical issue facing Irish families today.”