A Humanist's Journey Through the Existential Crises of Academic Motherhood

This personal essay describes the author's journey as an educator and professional counselor through her first 2 years as a mother, in the context of humanistic principles (Serlin, 2011). Yalom's (1980) 4 givens of existence, that is, death, isolation, meaninglessness, and freedom, provide...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Humanistic psychologist 2022-09, Vol.50 (3), p.342-352
Main Author: Muzacz, Arien K.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Breast Feeding
Breastfeeding & lactation
Career advancement
Counseling
Counselors
Crises
Death and Dying
Educational Personnel
Existentialism
Female
Freedom
Human
Humanistic Psychology
Middle Adulthood
Mothers
Parents
Personal development
Self-Care
Social Isolation
Social Justice
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Summary:This personal essay describes the author's journey as an educator and professional counselor through her first 2 years as a mother, in the context of humanistic principles (Serlin, 2011). Yalom's (1980) 4 givens of existence, that is, death, isolation, meaninglessness, and freedom, provide the foundation for examination of developmental life challenges faced by a working parent in middle adulthood and her family. Counseling's emphasis on holistic wellness is reflected in analyses of the personal meanings ascribed to breastfeeding, coping with medical issues, accepting physical limitations, redefining oneself as a professional, and maintaining self-care. This humanistic narrative of personal growth, authenticity, and vulnerability is framed by a social justice critique of U.S. expectations, values, and norms that differentially impact mothers.
ISSN:0887-3267
1547-3333
DOI:10.1037/hum0000207