Behind Closed Doors: Unspoken Experiences of Mothers Raising Children with Conduct Disorder

Mothers of children with conduct disorder often face intense social stigma that affects their psychological well-being, social relationships, and daily functioning. Despite growing attention to child behavioral conditions, limited research explores the lived experiences of mothers who must navigate societal judgment, blame, and exclusion due to their child’s diagnosis. This study aimed to explore the experiences of mothers raising children with conduct disorder, focusing on how they are labeled by society, encounter courtesy stigma within their immediate social environments, and face exclusion from institutions and communities. Anchored in Erving Goffman’s Stigma Theory, this research employed a qualitative phenomenological design to capture the depth of maternal experiences. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with nine purposively selected mothers from Mati City, Philippines, all of whom had school-aged children formally diagnosed with conduct disorder. Thematic analysis revealed three major themes: (1) labeling and stereotyping by society, where mothers felt judged and blamed for their child's behavior; (2) courtesy and associative stigma, where relatives, friends, and neighbors projected shame or disapproval; and (3) social exclusion, wherein mothers and their children were marginalized from schools, services, and community groups. Sub-themes highlighted emotional exhaustion, strained relationships, and barriers to institutional support. Verbatim accounts reflected feelings of helplessness, frustration, and resilience, underscoring the emotional burden mothers silently carry. This study concludes that societal stigma significantly shapes the maternal experience of caregiving for children with conduct disorder, contributing to social isolation and emotional distress. It recommends increased public awareness, mental health education, and the development of inclusive support systems to reduce stigma and empower mothers in similar situations. The findings contribute to policy and practice by highlighting the urgent need for stigma-responsive interventions in mental health and educational contexts.