Blending a Bifurcated Identity: MotherScholars Identifying Barriers, Finding Support, and Defining Success

• In Event: Understanding How to Support Women in Academia

Abstract

MotherScholars face a unique set of challenges relative to their male and non-parent colleagues in navigating the dual demands of domesticity and academe. We surveyed 295 self-identified MotherScholars about their definition of success, the barriers they face, and their sources of support. Our preliminary results show that a lack of access to affordable childcare and the competing demands unique to the dual roles of Mother and Scholar were largely perceived as a large barrier in meeting both the expectations of the academy and MotherScholars’ own definitions of success. However, MotherScholars are able to draw upon their family and colleagues (especially other MotherScholars) as sources of support. We hope our research can better inform policy conversations about gender inequity in academia.

Authors

• Sarah E. LaCour, National Center for Youth Law

• Carolyn A. Oldham, University of Kentucky

• Kelly D. Bradley, University of Kentucky