The Legacy of Stigma: American Single Mothers and the Harms of Social Perceptions

What is it about?

This study explores the historical and ongoing stigma faced by American single mothers, focusing on how perceptions are influenced by gender, race, and class. Historically, single motherhood in America has often been associated with single black women, leading to incomplete and inaccurate public perceptions. This research highlights how these conceptualizations remain deeply rooted in societal views and continue to shape the narrative around single mothers. The chapter delves into the binary and hierarchical construction of motherhood, where the 'good mother' is typically seen as married and white, while the 'bad' or 'othered' mother is unmarried and non-white. These stereotypes persist and impact middle-class single mothers today. The research argues that the framing of single mothers is powerful and continues to define the experience of motherhood itself. By examining the historical context and current perceptions, this study aims to shed light on the challenges faced by single mothers and the societal constructs that perpetuate these challenges. It calls for a reevaluation of these outdated views and emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and accurate understanding of single motherhood.

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Photo by Laura Fuhrman on Unsplash

Photo by Laura Fuhrman on Unsplash

Why is it important?

What makes this work unique and timely is its focus on the intersection of race, class, and gender in the context of single motherhood. In a time when social justice and equity are at the forefront of public discourse, this research provides a critical examination of how societal perceptions are formed and perpetuated. By challenging the traditional stereotypes of single mothers, this study aims to foster a more inclusive and empathetic understanding, which is crucial for shaping policies and societal attitudes.

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