The Intergenerational Transmission of Intensive Parenting Beliefs among Contemporary Mothers

Presenter

Alix Paisley Barry

Campus

Worcester State University

Sponsor

Kathryn Frazier, Department of Psychology, Worcester State University

Schedule

Session 3, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A82, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 5 (A81-A100) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

This study investigates the transmission of intensive mothering beliefs across generations and how contemporary mothers redefine, reclaim, or discontinue these dimensions in their parenting practices. Intensive mothering refers to a parenting ideology that emphasizes the idea that mothers should devote significant time, energy, and resources to raising their children despite its association with adverse mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, shame, and guilt.

While numerous studies have investigated the intergenerational transmission of parenting behaviors, few have specifically focused on the intergenerational transmission of intensive mothering beliefs. This study addresses this gap by examining the transmission of intensive mothering beliefs through a cultural lens, considering the factors leading contemporary mothers to redefine, reclaim, or discontinue intensive mothering dimensions in their parenting practices.

Interviews were conducted with 26 mothers to examine their experiences and perceptions of motherhood. The analysis focused on discussions of intensive mothering, cultural factors influencing the transmission of intensive parenting behaviors, and the factors leading contemporary mothers to redefine, reclaim, or discontinue intensive mothering dimensions.

The thematic analysis explored the influence of family as culture in navigating norms and values, particularly in the context of intensive mothering. It also examines the impact of past experiences on current mothering practices, the changing landscape of parenthood, and the challenges mothers encounter in reconciling societal expectations.

The findings contribute to understanding intergenerational transmission of intensive mothering, the cultural factors that influence parenting practices, and how contemporary mothers navigate this ideology in their parenting practices.

Keywords

Contemporary Motherhood, Intensive Mothering Beliefs, Cultural Influences on Parenting Practices, Intergenerational Transmission, Psychology of Women

Research Area

Psychology and Behavioral Sciences

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