Navigating Maternal Technoference: A Qualitative Study on the Ramifications of Social Media Impediments on Mother-Child Attachment

Abstract

The primary goal of this paper is to examine maternal navigations in the digital landscape and the reverberations of online interactions on mother-child attachment. Grounded in the social constructivist and interpretivist philosophical approach, the present study utilizes a qualitative case study design within cultural context of Pakistani society, involving educated housewives caring for their children aged 5–12. An interview guide was used for data collection from a sample size of 47 participants selected through purposive and snowball sampling methods. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. This paper unveils the challenges posed by social media platforms’ usage, i.e., reduced attention from mothers toward their children, reduced participation in children's endeavors, children experiencing need neglect, and mother-child interaction during conflicts among children. Overall, the present research paper adds a nuanced contribution to the existing body of knowledge by exploring the dynamics of mother's social media usage and its ramifications on mother-child attachment in the context of developing countries, emphasizing mindful and informed parenting in this digital age to ensure a brighter future of generations.