In recent years, social media has become an integral part of daily life, particularly for mothers navigating the complexities of parenting within the frameworks established by cultural ideologies. A fascinating exploration into this intersection of technology and parenting is presented in a new study by researcher J. Chae, which delves into mothers’ social media usage through the lens of “Intensive Mothering Ideology.” This term refers to a predominant cultural narrative primarily in Western societies, where mothers are expected to be wholly dedicated to the emotional, intellectual, and physical well-being of their children. The study compares how this ideology manifests in two different cultural contexts: the United States and Singapore.
Chae’s research highlights the increasing pressure mothers feel to curate an idealized version of motherhood on social media platforms, where the portrayal of parenting is often unrealistic and unattainable. In both the U.S. and Singapore, social media has been shown to not only amplify these pressures but also to create a community around shared experiences and anxieties. This duality raises critical questions about the impact of social media on maternal mental health, as mothers navigate through user-generated content that glorifies certain parenting practices while simultaneously inducing feelings of inadequacy.
The methodological approach taken by Chae involved a multifaceted analysis, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data. Surveys were administered to mothers in both countries, gauging their social media habits, emotional responses to content, and perceptions of motherhood. Additionally, the study analyzed social media posts and interactions to uncover patterns in how mothers engage with each other and the type of content that garners the most focus and engagement. The findings illustrate that while there are similarities across cultural lines, distinct differences in social norms and values lead to differing experiences in how mothers utilize social media.
One striking result from the research highlights the notion of “mom shaming,” a phenomenon where mothers face judgment from peers based on their parenting choices articulated through social media representation. Chae explains that in the United States, this mom-shaming tends to be more overt and frequent, often manifesting in comments on public forums or posts. Conversely, Singaporean mothers experience a subtler form of critique, where social expectations around collectivism and community judgment play a significant role in discouraging open discussions about parenting struggles.
Furthermore, the study emphasizes the role of social media in shaping identity and social support among mothers. In both cultural contexts, social media serves as a double-edged sword, providing a platform for connection and community building while simultaneously exposing individuals to the pitfalls of comparison. The research suggests that mothers who actively engage in online communities can find invaluable support, sharing advice and experiences, which can both alleviate and exacerbate feelings of isolation and anxiety.
The role of cultural narratives cannot be understated. Enhancing motherhood through an intensive lens underscores a broader societal expectation that limits the discourse around maternal responsibilities. This research shines a light on the nuanced ways social media platforms are used by mothers in different cultural environments and how those platforms can reflect and influence local ideologies about motherhood.
Chae’s study does not shy away from addressing the implications of these findings for mental health. By revealing the psychological toll that intensive mothering and social media engagement can take, the research advocates for better awareness and conversation around these issues. It highlights the importance of creating more supportive online environments where mothers can feel empowered to share authentic narratives rather than curated perfection.
The results of this study prompt critical examination of how social media influences motherhood in various cultural contexts. For mothers in the U.S., the pervasive nature of intensive mothering can create an atmosphere of competition that negatively impacts self-esteem and mental health. Whereas in Singapore, the influence of collectivist norms means mothers may feel pressured to conform to group expectations, leading to a quiet suffering often hidden beneath the surface.
Thus, the research conducted by Chae illuminates an important facet of contemporary parenting, presenting a compelling case for the need to balance the benefits of connectivity offered by social media with the stark realities of its pressures. It calls for a reconsideration of how intensive mothering dynamics play out within digital realms, advocating for greater mental health resources and support systems designed specifically for mothers navigating these societal challenges.
In conclusion, Chae’s study serves as a crucial contribution to the discourse surrounding motherhood, social media, and cultural expectations. As technology continues to evolve, so too must our understandings of its impact on personal and social identities. The intersection of intensive mothering ideology and social media is a rich field for ongoing research, with implications that resonate far beyond just the realm of parenting. Ultimately, this study offers a hopeful perspective, suggesting that through awareness and community, mothers can reclaim narratives of authenticity in their parenting journeys, regardless of cultural backdrop.
Subject of Research: Social media usage among mothers under intensive mothering ideology in different cultural contexts.
Article Title: Mothers’ Social Media Use under Intensive Mothering Ideology: A Comparison between the United States and Singapore.
Article References:
Chae, J. Mothers’ Social Media Use under Intensive Mothering Ideology: A Comparison between the United States and Singapore.
J Child Fam Stud (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-025-03203-y
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-025-03203-y
Keywords: Social media, motherhood, intensive mothering, cultural comparison, mental health, parenting pressures, community support.
