Communicating World Views: Bad Mothers as “Equipment for Living”

Session Submission Type: Panel Discussion

Abstract

Embracing “bad mother” images is an alternative to accepting ideologies of motherhood present in mainstream culture. The promotion of the ideal mother as the only good mother places those who fall short in the category of bad mother. The bad mother provides “equipment for living.” By scapegoating perceived bad mothers, all of society can feel better about their own place and re-focus their attention on mothers that are worse than them ensuring little resistance.

Sub Unit

• Women's Caucus

Chair

• Lana G Marlow, Angelo State Univ

Respondent

• Jennifer F. Wood, Millersville University of Pennsylvania

Session Organizer

• Lana G Marlow, Angelo State Univ