Motherhood and Social Exclusion

Though the negative effects of social exclusion are well documented, there is a paucity of research on women’s experiences of social exclusion as they relate to mothering within the institution of motherhood. Social exclusion is a socially constructed concept; it refers to a multi-dimensional form of systematic discrimination driven by unequal power relationships. It is the denial of equal opportunities, resources, rights, goods, and services for some, by others, within economic, social, cultural, and political arenas. Carrying, birthing, and mothering children place women in a unique position to face social exclusion based on their role as mothers. Perhaps at no other time in our lives could we benefit more from feeling as though we are engaged in our community than when we enter into and are experiencing the patriarchal institution of motherhood. As the widely used proverb states, “It takes a village to raise a child”, it also takes a village (of societal institutions) to support mothers. This collection explores motherhood in the context of social exclusion. The book is divided into four parts, each exploring the topic from a different perspective: A Historical Look at Motherhood; Mothers and Crime; Disability, Care Work, and Motherhood; and Personal Narratives. “This compilation provides an insightful new angle to the inherent experience of social exclusion by mothers. Understanding the ways in which motherhood can be associated with exclusion is crucial for mothers themselves, their social networks, mental health practitioners, child care professionals and policy makers." --Dr. Verena Graupmann, Assciate Professor, Psychological Science, DePaul University "This collection makes a significant contribution to the study of mothering that takes place in conditions of social exclusion. While there are many studies that address the issue from the perspective of women in general, this book is among the few that detail the effects on mothers of these conditions, and the chapters based on in-depth interviews, as well as the auto-ethnographic narratives are especially illuminating. The strength of the collection is that it really focuses attention on social and policy issues that need to change in order to alleviate some of the problems the mothers in the collection discuss. " -- Dr. Tatjana Takševa, Associate Professor, Department of English Language and Literature, Women and Gender Studies Program, Saint Mary's University