The Ideology Of Intensive Mothering In The United States

Fifty years ago, it was seen as normal for women to be homemakers while, men worked for pay outside the home. This scenario has stayed the same in some North American families, however, changed in others. It has changed because of the increase of women that have entered the labour force. Deciding to parent and then to raise a child is an important time in a couple’s life. This is because couples must decide who will take on the responsibility of child care. Mothers and fathers in North American families in any culture want the best for their child. In this essay it will be argued that the ideology of intensive mothering is a culturally defined practice within western society and as a result creates women’s inequality within the home and in