Perception about Mother-in-law

Abstract

Qualitative research was conducted to explore the perception about mother-in-law in Pakistan. The sample consisted of 14 females (7 unmarried, 7 married) with an age range of 25-35 years. In this qualitative study data was collected through two focus groups. One focus group was conducted among unmarried females and the second focus group was conducted among married females to know about their perception about mother-in-law in Pakistani society. The following themes emerged in the unmarried focus group after analyzing data through IPA: “impact of changing role, dilemma of controlling daughter-in-law, mother-in-law as peacemaker and factors affecting perception.” From married female’s focus group, following themes emerged after analysis: “Impact of changing role, Mother-in-law as troublemaker, Relational strain because of environmental factors and Factors effecting perception.” These findings were discussed against the backdrop of international literature about the perception about mother-in-law. Implications of these findings are discussed.