Citation :

Sehar Sharma, "Between Career and Care: Understanding the Hidden Costs of Motherhood in Contemporary Urban India," International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 13, no. 3, pp. 27-37, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V13I3P104

Abstract

This study seeks to examine the socioeconomic, psychological, and cultural aspects of motherhood among urban Indian working women, emphasising the “shadow cost of motherhood.” This pertains to the frequently imperceptible economic and professional sacrifices linked to parenthood. It looks at how career goals, workplace rules, and support systems have changed how mothers think about motherhood and are still changing how they think about it. A qualitative research design was utilised. Demographic data were collected through an online survey (76 respondents), and on the basis of interest and availability, follow-up interviews with 12 participants were scheduled. The participants were equally divided between women who have children (n = 6) and those who do not (n = 6). The responses collected through interviews were analysed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and codes. Findings revealed six themes among women without children: Family Type and Impact on Motherhood; Desire for Motherhood as Dynamic and Conditional; Career–Motherhood Tension; Economic Rationality of Motherhood; Motherhood and Identity Negotiation; and Redefining Motherhood in Contemporary Contexts. Among women with children, eight themes emerged: Early Socialisation and Parenting Values; Desire for Children; Career–Motherhood Trade-offs; Economic Planning and Financial Consciousness; Agency vs Structural Constraints; Support Systems as Enablers of Motherhood; Redefining Motherhood in Contemporary Contexts; and Stability and Resistance to Change in Motherhood Views. Across both groups, concerns included career disruption, financial burden, identity shifts, and the importance of family support. The study focuses on the need for more supportive workplace policies and social systems to reduce the burden associated with motherhood.

Keywords

Motherhood, Shadow Cost, Financial Burden, Identity Crisis, Maternity Policies.

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