Living in a mother-and-child facility is often not a voluntary choice, but rather the result of a risk to a child’s welfare. The mothers’ autonomy is restricted through daily routines, round-the-clock care and the objectives set out in their support plans. Based on biographical-narrative interviews, Annalena Schellenberg examines how mothers interpret and shape their motherhood in a support context and negotiate their autonomy. The author highlights various action strategies and provides practical insights for social work students and professionals working in mother-and-child facilities. The aim is to raise awareness of autonomy regarding motherhood within the context of care.
