Orna Donath

Orna Donath, an Israeli sociologist and author of 'Regretting Motherhood,' dives into the complex feelings women face about motherhood. She discusses the distinction between regret and ambivalence, shedding light on societal pressures influencing these sentiments. Orna explores the taboo around regret, revealing how silence perpetuates it. She outlines three groups of regretful mothers and argues that stigma can be reduced through openness. Reflecting on her own choice to be childfree, she emphasizes the importance of personal agency in family decisions.

Orna Donath, a sociologist and professor at Tel Aviv University, dives deep into the controversial topic of motherhood regret. She shares poignant accounts from women who describe motherhood as traumatic, highlighting the societal pressures that push women towards parenting. Orna discusses her new research on elderly, childless women, emphasizing their lack of regret and the need for healthy role models. She also explores how self-awareness can guide decisions about motherhood and the meaning of life without children, offering a refreshing perspective on societal norms.

Israeli sociologist Orna Donath discusses her landmark book 'Regretting Motherhood' and the taboo surrounding women who regret becoming mothers. She explores the difference between regret and ambivalence, the shame and secrecy women face, and the societal pressure surrounding parenthood. This conversation sheds light on the experiences of women who regret being mothers and aims to remove the stigma surrounding alternative choices.