Hey Mama, We Hear You: An Analysis of Online Parenting Support Conversations on Reddit

Abstract

The transition to motherhood brings many challenges as women simultaneously adjust to several changes. Understanding the common themes, social support, and conversations that take place within online peer groups is critical in our technologically driven society. The study utilizes both machine learning and qualitative approaches to analyze 796 threads related to support written by Reddit users. Common themes found related to pressure on baby care/visitation during COVID-19, child care, child health/development, self-identity/self-esteem, and challenges related to the prenatal/postpartum period. In addition, mothers sought both emotional and informational support across all subreddits. These results suggest that online peer groups in which mothers can disclose events, challenges, and emotions may help reduce feelings of isolation and enable the exchange of support between new mothers.