For all of the mothers in the study, empowerment was very
much a leaning process Self-development was enhanced
as the mothers tapped into their strengths and capabilities
Mothers gained new competencies, felt stronger and
became more efficacious In essence, they had gained a
sense of mastery of their situation Clearly, the mothers
experienced transformative change within themselves
The mothers found meaning within their experiences The
ability to find meaning in their situation enabled the
mothers to have a positive orientation towards life They
integrated their experiences — their disappointments,
shattered dreams and successes — to find a sense of purpose
m them and to reach out to help others