From "Stroller-Stalker" to "Momancer"

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to explore the roles of an online social networking site (SNS) called Momstown.ca in the development of peer support Interviews with 22 members of Momstown.ca demonstrated that women experience a sense of isolation for a variety of reasons and desperately want to connect with other mothers in a similar situation. Women reported attempts to befriend other mothers through "stroller stalking," which often led to bad "mommy dates." Momstown.ca served as a matchmaker by enabling women to court other moms online and face-to-face. We conclude these interactions facilitate momances (deep platonic friendships amongst mothers), but also a sense of community. As a result, women experienced care, camaraderie, and felt connected, not isolated and alone.KEYWORDS: Motherhoodleisure-oriented sociabilitypeer supportisolationcommunity Additional informationNotes on contributorsDiana C. ParryDiana C. Parry and Troy D. Glover are associate professors, and Caitlin M. Mulcahy is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, University of Waterloo, Ontario Canada.Troy D. GloverDiana C. Parry and Troy D. Glover are associate professors, and Caitlin M. Mulcahy is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, University of Waterloo, Ontario Canada.Caitlin M. MulcahyDiana C. Parry and Troy D. Glover are associate professors, and Caitlin M. Mulcahy is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, University of Waterloo, Ontario Canada.