Longing for my Mother’s love

The concept of "mother hunger" refers to a psychological and emotional longing for a mother figure or nurturing maternal presence, particularly in cases where a person has experienced a lack of maternal care or nurturing in their childhood.

Kelly McDaniel termed an attachment injury as “Mother Hunger.” McDaniel’s book “Mother Hunger” assists adult daughters understand and heal from an attachment wound by their mother. The book highlights core components of mother hunger including lack of nurturance, protection, and guidance. 

People who experience mother hunger may feel a deep-seated need for emotional warmth, nurturing, and affection from a maternal figure, and may struggle with feelings of abandonment or rejection due to a lack of maternal care in their upbringing. This can lead to difficulties in forming and maintaining close relationships, as well as feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression.

While the term "mother hunger" may suggest a focus solely on the role of the mother, it is important to note that the concept can apply to any primary caregiver who was absent or lacking in nurturing and emotional support. Additionally, it is possible to work through and heal from the effects of mother hunger with the help of therapy, self-care, and supportive relationships.