Perceived changes in competence, relatedness, and autonomy reported by mothers since joining a mom-centered digital community

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundMotherhood can profoundly challenge individuals’ well-being. Social media and other digital platforms are promising modalities for reaching and supporting mothers with evidence-based psychoeducation and connection to peers. However, much is unknown about how mothers perceive these online peer communities and their impact on health and well-being.PurposeTo describe mothers’ perceptions of the impact of exposure to and engagement with a mom-centered digital community (Momwell) on their well-being.MethodsPregnant persons and mothers exposed to Momwell psychoeducational content and community related to motherhood via social media, podcast, or blog completed an online survey (N=569). Participants reported several perceived changes related to competence, relatedness/connection, and autonomy in decision-making since joining the Momwell community by rating their agreement with a series of questions.ResultsAll but two participants identified as mothers; 45% were either pregnant or within 12 months postpartum. The majority agreed with statements about perceived changes in their lives, well-being, and feelings since joining the Momwell community (82-97%). All participants reported positive changes related to their sense of competence, 99% reported positive changes related to relatedness, and 97% reported positive changes related to autonomy.ConclusionExposure to psychoeducational content related to motherhood and maternal mental health and peer engagement within a mom-centered community can enhance maternal well-being through positive changes in competence, relatedness, and autonomy.