Features of psychological well-being and success among young mothers

Background. Understanding the internal resources of women during the transition to motherhood is essential for developing effective psychological support programs and preventing emotional disturbances. The early stages of motherhood are characterized by significant life changes and intense emotional stress, making it particularly important to explore the factors that determine a woman's psychological well-being. However, aspects such as life meaning and personal fulfillment among young mothers remain insufficiently studied in the scientific literature.

Purpose. To identify the personal and existential foundations of subjective well-being in women during early motherhood.

Materials and methods. The study involved 120 women aged 25–35 who were legally married and raising one child under the age of one. Validated questionnaires developed by C. Ryff and D.A. Leontiev were used. Statistical data analysis was carried out using Spearman’s correlation analysis.

Results. A high level of life goals was revealed, giving young mothers a sense of perspective and direction. A reduced perception of freedom of choice and relative dissatisfaction with their current life situation were also identified. The main predictors of subjective well-being were found to be self-acceptance, autonomy, and purposefulness, with self-acceptance having the strongest impact on the overall level of well-being. A significant correlation was established between environmental mastery and all major components of personal potential. The level of autonomy was determined by the ability for self-regulation and independence. Positive relations with others were not directly associated with autonomy but were mediated by life goals and self-acceptance. The psychological well-being of young mothers is thus seen as the result of the complex realization of personal resources.