Academic Mothers: A Study of Work-life Challenges

• In Event: Academic Mothers

Abstract

Work-life conflicts have been widely discussed in the studies of higher education professors. Literature has revealed that finding a perfect balance between working a full-time academic job and taking care of the family with young children was not an easy task. This study focused on the work-life experience of an underrepresented group in higher education: mother professors. Through in-depth interviews and discourse analysis, the study revealed their major challenge and concerns in taking on the dual role at the workplace and at home. Moreover, by understanding the unique obstacles in the career paths of mother professors and their childcare responsibilities, the study provided significant insights toward educational and policy changes that emphasize a positive and healthy academic motherhood.

Author

• Lu Liang, Pepperdine University