What is the purpose of the research?

The purpose of the research is to identify the similarities and differences in younger (<18) and older (40+) first time mothers’ experiences of becoming a mother. For example why do more and more women choose to become a mum at an age which is often regarded by society as either ‘too young’ or ‘too old’. What are the benefits of becoming a mum younger or older?

The research will also investigate how the British newspapers currently reports on younger and older mothers. I think that older and younger mothers have important things to say about these issues, so the research will also involve discussing some press articles featuring mothers.

What would taking part in the research involve?

If you agree to take part in the research I will conduct a tape recorded interview with you. This will be an informal interview of about an hour in a relaxed environment of your choice where topics such as these may be covered:

Do you think your age has affected your experience of being/becoming a mum?

What do you think makes a good mother?

What do you think about the ways the media reports on older mothers?

At the start of the interview you will be provided with consent forms that give you the right to withdraw or stop the interview at any point.

What will I gain from taking part in the research?

I hope that taking part in the interview will be an enjoyable and rewarding experience that might be a useful record and/or an opportunity to recount memories about the birth of your first child. Moreover you will be contributing to an important academic research project and helping me in the process.

What happens to the interviews?

All the interviews are treated as strictly confidential and you are guaranteed anonymity. I will ensure that individual cannot be recognised in any ensuing publications.

It is important that you know that any publications which come out of this research may use some quotations of your words from the interview. In your consent form you will be asked to confirm if you are happy with this.

If you take part in the interview you will be offered a copy of the interview transcript and a summary of the research findings. The research findings are likely to be published in academic journals. I welcome any feedback from participants about the research and would like to keep in touch with you after the interviews.

What is the next stage of the research?

The second stage of the research is to invite both younger and older mums to take part in group discussions about their experiences and their opinions about motherhood. All mothers who are interviewed will be asked if they are interested in taking part in the second stage of the research, but are not obligated to do so. I will be able to provide you with more information about the group discussions at the interview if you are interested.

What should i do if i am interested in taking part?

If you would like to speak to me about your opinions and experiences of becoming and being a mother please contact me using the contact details below and let me know when and where you would like the interview to take place.

Maud Perrier

Doctoral Researcher

Home: 02476 522886

Mobile: 07775875442

Email: M.M.Perrier@warwick.ac.uk