A não maternidade por opção: depoimentos de mulheres que não querem ter filhos

Abstract

The concept of motherhood reflects a patriarchal system which reinforces the social imposition of starting a family, laying on women the compulsory responsibility of bearing and raising children. However, there is a considerable number of women which, nowadays, do not aspire to motherhood, an evidence of this are the low rates of natality and the new types of familiar organization. This research collected data through online questionnaires which were answered by 310 women who affirm the desire of not being a mother. The data were organized in the following categories: Compulsory motherhood: motherhood as an obligation and unquestionable destiny for women; Regret – most of the answers point to the external statement that this is not about a decision, but a momentary choice which will cause regret. Motherhood is a blessing – statements that consider the child as the main source of happiness. It is highlighted the possibility of saying about the option for non-motherhood and sharing, but not without judgment and connected to an idea of compulsory motherhood.