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Figuring families: generation, situation and narrative in contemporary mothering
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 11:23 authored by Mary Jane Kehily, Rachel ThomsonRachel ThomsonThis paper contributes to the theme of the special issue by identifying concepts that both embody relationality and have the capacity to address and articulate temporal processes. Based on an empirical study of first time motherhood, we offer a sensitising conceptual framework which privileges the temporal, scaffolding the macro socio-historical with the micro personal and subjective. The study combines longitudinal and intergenerational approaches to develop an understanding of maternal experience as it unfolds, while forging connections between individual biography, generational investments and intergenerational dynamics. Drawing on a conceptual tool kit from life history, cultural studies, social psychology and sociology, we profile two biographical case studies as an illustration of our approach. Our analysis of their contrasting experiences as 'young' and 'old' mothers demonstrates the salience of key conceptual terms including 'generation', 'situation' and 'narrative' and how this conceptual framework can both map and animate accounts of contemporary mothering.
History
Publication status
- Published
Journal
Sociological Research OnlineISSN
1360-7804External DOI
Issue
4Volume
16Department affiliated with
- Social Work and Social Care Publications
Full text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2012-05-09Usage metrics
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