Motherhood is demanding, while raising and caring for the youngest, many mothers succumb to external pressure and the desire to be full - this phenomenon is called the perfect mother syndrome.
Perfect Mom Syndrome it is a consequence of society's expectations of perfect upbringing, perfect motherhood, etc. Being a mother in a technologically advanced world is difficult, also because the images on social networks remind us that we need to be as close to perfection as possible.
While striving for perfection is sometimes okay, perfectionism can actually do more harm than good.
Research conducted by the University of Texas at Austin (2019) revealed the great pressure mothers face to achieve perfection. The study reveals that societal expectations, cultural norms and the influence of social media contribute to an idealized image of motherhood where mothers feel the need to achieve unattainable standards in all aspects of parenting. This constant striving for perfection can lead to increased stress, self-doubt, and a deterioration in overall well-being.
"Perfect Moms"
The study found that when it comes to perfection, those who have to succeed at all costs end up taking the shortest time. Perfectionist parents can also cause serious damage to children. Not only do they have higher than normal standards for themselves and their children, but their behavior and anxiety about needing to do better is passed on to their children.
A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry (2018) found that mothers who strive for perfection may inadvertently hinder their children's emotional and psychological development. Research shows that mothers who constantly strive for perfection have too high expectations for their children. This can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety in children, which negatively affects their self-esteem and overall mental health.
Children also like to hear stories about mistakes and failures, psychologists warn. Not only does it instill in them the fact that no one is perfect, but it shows that you, their parents, are human, and so are they. And to err is human.
Self-compassion for parents is crucial to breaking free from the harmful cycle of perfectionism. This includes self care, setting realistic expectations and accepting yourself. Recognizing that making mistakes is part of the learning process allows mothers to model resilience and provide an encouraging environment for their children to grow and succeed.
