Research Synthesis on Motherhood in Thai Society for Policy Utilization

Abstract

This research aims to collect research studies related to motherhood in Thai society, published during the five years from 2018-2022, to synthesize and make practical policy recommendations using meta-synthesis and a qualitative synthesis method. There are 127 research studies in 8 groups of sciences classified according to the experiences and characteristics of motherhood into seven groups: pregnant mothers, postpartum mothers, mothers with sick children or behavioral problems, working mothers, single mothers, teenage mothers, and alternative mothers. The results show that motherhood has overlapping characteristics with biological and social determination. Formulating policies for mothers should begin by providing comprehensive protection for pregnant mothers and increasing healthcare opportunities consistent with their social and cultural context. Moreover, leveraging technology and social media to support motherhood and promoting a friendly working environment for mothers should be given importance. Especially, mothers who need to take care of their children who have special care needs should be supported with necessary resources. In addition, ensuring status and providing protection to alternative mothers, as well as supporting access to assisted reproductive technology for infertile mothers, along with supporting opportunities and options for teenage and single mothers should be considered. Finally, it is necessary to prepare family support for the mother’s role simultaneously.