The good mother in theory and research : an overview

This book brings together illuminating new research that contemplates the contemporary relevance of 'the good mother' in the Australian context. Despite decades of feminist critique of dominant representations of mothers and motherhood, images of 'the good mother' appear as prevalent as ever. These images persist in public policy, the media, popular culture and workplaces, and saturate everyday practices and interactions. They continue to powerfully shape women's lives. As Sara Ruddick (2001: 189) argues, the good mother 'casts a long shadow over other women's lives'. Mothers thus remain subject to close social regulation. It is also clear, however, that contemporary representations of the good mother are not uniform, nor are they stable. The good mother appears differently in different settings - she is a nuanced and multiple form. This book provides an exploration of her contemporary incarnations and effects.