The relationship between motherhood and work: a study with domestic workers

• Grant number: 23/17557-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2024
• End date: August 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Humanities - Psychology - Human Development Psychology
• Principal Investigator: Thassia Souza Emidio
• Grantee: Sabrina Aparecida Fernandes
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Letras (FCL-ASSIS). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Assis. Assis , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This research aims to reflect on and understand the relationship between motherhoodand work for domestic workers in Brazil. It explores the complex interplay ofmotherhood and work, shaped by intersections of gender, race, and class. The studyanalyzes social representations of motherhood, influenced by historical, cultural, andeconomic factors, and how these shape the daily experiences of these women. Delvinginto the duality of women's roles in both the labor market and domestic settings, itexamines the strategies employed by these workers to manage maternal andprofessional responsibilities. This qualitative, exploratory-descriptive research employssemi-structured interviews with 6 to 8 women aged between 20 and 45 years, eachhaving at least one child under 18 and earning a maximum of half the minimum wage,engaged in paid domestic work. Adhering to ethical standards for human research, thestudy was submitted to an ethics committee. Data analysis will be conducted usingThematic Content Analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2019), providing detailed organizationand interpretation of emerging patterns in participants' narratives. This approachenhances understanding of the dynamics between motherhood and work, highlightingthe evolution of motherhood and women's participation in the Brazilian labor market.The research aims to contribute to the debate on these issues, influencing thedevelopment of public policies and social strategies that promote equity and recognitionfor domestic workers.