The Rise of Digital Motherhood: How Baby Monitors Became Mandatory

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• PMID: 40832952
• DOI: 10.1177/13591053251353198

Free article

Chloé Michoud et al. J Health Psychol. 2025.

Free article

Abstract

Despite recommendations against using commercial sleep monitoring devices to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), their use is increasing among parents. This study explores mothers' discursive constructions about the usage of baby monitors during their infants' sleep. By analysing 43 online posts from the website Mumsnet through Critical Discursive Psychology, two key discourses were identified: 'surveillance as a good mothering practice' and 'risk management via technology'. The first repertoire illustrated how mothers incorporate digital surveillance into their daily routines, using baby monitors as essential tools to enact 'good mothering'. The second repertoire shows how technology is portrayed as a beneficial tool for mothers and parents, helping in childcare and enhancing safety. In conclusion, baby monitors are seen as essential for managing mothering risks, but their pervasive use can create challenges, raising concerns about whether mothers should adapt to these tools or if the tools should better serve parents' needs.

Keywords: baby monitor; critical health psychology; mothering practices; qualitative methods; sleep monitoring device.

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