Re-Experiencing Motherhood: Transformation of Relationships Between Formerly Abused Women and Their Children

Little knowledge exists on abused women's experience of motherhood following divorce. This qualitative study examined perspectives of 12 formerly abused Israeli women, using in-depth interviews. Findings revealed how women managed an ongoing dialogue between former motherhood in violence and significant changes in mother-children relationships after years of victimization and emotional concealment. All women were determined to repair the impact of violence on the mother-children bond. Some succeeded, whereas others could not reconcile painful relationships. The study findings suggest that understanding the familial dynamics is essential: mothers' new roles and children's potential reactions in this context. Implications for practice are discussed.