How Social Media Plays A Role in Stay-At-Home-Mom's Transition: A Case Study in China

Abstract

In China, stay-at-home moms (SAHMs) often experience a hard time during their transitions, such as returning to school or restarting their careers. Yet, their experiences throughout this transition and their strategies to overcome potential challenges are rarely studied in the CSCW literature. In this study, we examined how Chinese SAHMs leveraged social media platforms to assist their transition and help them navigate the potential challenges. Through interviewing 15 SAHMs who have successfully completed their transitions, we identified the key role that social media platforms (e.g., RedNote, Douyin) play in helping SAHMS build resilience as they re-engage with society. For example, many SAHMs found peer support during their transition from mom-centric social groups where they could receive advice that was specific to their situations and constraints. When they achieved their goals, they turned into contributors in such groups and altruistically shared their experiences to help other moms. Based on the findings, we discussed the opportunities to support SAHMs’ transitions.