Maternal Eco-Distress as Catalyst for Post-Traumatic Growth Amidst Climate Change

Abstract

This study explored the intersection of motherhood, eco-distress, and post-traumatic growth (PTG) in the context of climate havoc and positions mothers as important agents of environmental sustainability. It demonstrated how maternal eco-distress can be transformed from a potentially paralyzing experience into a generative force for ecological identity development and intergenerational stewardship of the natural world. Drawing on a sample of 13 North American mothers with children under the age of three, the study employed a mixed-methods design that analyzed qualitative narrative data alongside quantitative measures of climate distress, maternal functioning, and psychological well-being. While many participants reported negative emotions, such as anxiety, guilt, and sadness, related to exposure to extreme weather events (EWEs), some also expressed a “learned hopefulness” and exhibited resilience in the form of PTG. The findings suggest that matrescence, the transition to motherhood, is a key developmental stage for fostering ecological awakening, renewing a personal relationship with nature, and transmitting pro-environmental values to future generations. The study highlights the importance for maternal care providers to assess the presence of eco-maternal awareness in new mothers, especially for those experiencing climate-related mental health challenges.