The Superwoman in Collectivist Culture: The Social Perception ofthe Balance Between Motherhood and Career

Abstract

Meanings of motherhood have evolved over time, shifting from a valued spiritual and social role to a more narrowly defined biological function. Nonetheless, motherhood continues to hold strong social significance in collectivist cultures. This paper draws on data from a broader study investigating women’s perceptions of macrosystem and mesosystem messages regarding motherhood and infertility. The present analysis focuses specifically on perceptions of social encouragement to balance motherhood and career. Findings indicate that motherhood remains central in Romanian women’s lives, shaped by family expectations and normative pressures regarding the timing and necessity of childbearing. Participants reported exposure to conflicting institutional messages that simultaneously promote traditional motherhood and modern ideals emphasizing education, career achievement, and female autonomy. Within this context, the “working mother” becomes most valued, reconciling professional success with maintaining family continuity. Women described a fulfilled life as one that integrates self-acceptance, career achievement, motherhood, and romantic relationships. This multidimensional perspective illustrates the internalization of the “Superwoman” ideal and shows how motherhood, career, and relational roles are negotiated within interconnected macro- and mesosystemic influences. These findings guide policies supporting motherhood, reproductive health, and work-family balance.