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Abstract

Women in academia face many challenges, which have been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This is particularly true for women in academia who are also mothers. The authors conducted a phenomenological study examining these challenges and their effects on identity utilizing Super’s (1980) Life-Span Life-Space approach and Career Construction Theory (Savickas, 1997, 2005) as the theoretical framework. The participants identified and described the various ways they navigate their mother and scholar identities and the integration of their motherscholar identity. In navigating the pandemic at work and home, participants also reported changes to their identity as spouses/partners, and a sense of loss in their identities and roles professionally and personally. The authors outlined potential mental health implications and interventions for career counselors working with motherscholars.

Keywords

academia academic mothers identity COVID-19 pandemic

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Exploring the Identities,Barriers,and Interventions for Motherscholars During a Global Pandemic

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