Abstract
The COVID-19 global pandemic has highlighted and exacerbated existing gender-based inequalities in the workforce. A research collective developed by academic mothers with young children (“Motherscholars”) has emerged as a solution to address some of the constraints facing mothers in academia. The Motherscholar Collective was formed to research the effects of the pandemic on the work and personal lives of academic mothers with young children. This study uses focus group interviews to explore how the Motherscholar Collective has provided relief to the sources of threat generated and amplified by the pandemic. Findings show that flexibility, collaboration, validation, and empowerment are key themes that reflect how the collective contributes to motherscholars’ authenticity by facilitating a harmonious integration of their professional and personal identities. Implications and lessons for workplaces are discussed.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | International Perspectives in Psychology |
| State | Submitted - 1800 |