Introduction to Changing Concepts of Parenthood

Welcome to this guide on motherhood and fatherhood! In Sociology, we don't just look at being a parent as a biological fact. Instead, we look at it as a social construction. This means that the ideas we have about what a "good mother" or a "good father" looks like change depending on the time, the culture, and the society we live in.

In this chapter, we will explore how these roles have shifted from traditional expectations to the more diverse versions we see today. Don't worry if it seems like a lot to take in—we'll break it down step-by-step!

1. Parenthood as a Social Construction

The most important starting point is understanding that roles in the family are not "natural" or "fixed." Social construction refers to the idea that society creates the meanings and expectations attached to roles like "mother" or "father."

  • Historical Change: In the past, mothers were rarely expected to work outside the home, and fathers were rarely expected to change diapers.
  • Cultural Diversity: Different cultures have different rules about who looks after children and how much power each parent has.

Quick Tip: If an exam question asks about "changing concepts," it is asking you to show how the definitions and expectations of these roles have moved from the past to the present.

2. Changing Concepts of Motherhood

The Traditional View: The "Expressive Role"

Historically, and according to functionalist perspectives, the mother's primary role was the expressive role. This involves providing emotional support, nurturing children, and managing the "atmosphere" of the home. New Right thinkers also tend to support this view, arguing that children benefit most when mothers stay at home to provide primary socialisation.

The Modern View: The "New Motherhood"

Today, the concept of motherhood has expanded. Most mothers now belong to the workforce. This has led to:

  • The Dual Burden: Many women now manage a career while still being the primary caregiver at home.
  • Increased Independence: Motherhood is no longer always tied to marriage. We see a rise in lone-parent households and families of choice.
  • Expertise: Modern mothers are often expected to be "experts," following advice from doctors, psychologists, and the media on how to raise "successful" children.

Did you know? Feminist sociologists argue that while the "concept" of motherhood has changed, the actual workload for women has often increased because they are now expected to succeed at work and at home.

3. Changing Concepts of Fatherhood

The Traditional View: The "Instrumental Role"

In the past, the father's role was seen as instrumental. This means he was the breadwinner—the person who went out to work to provide money and protection. He was often seen as a distant figure of authority and the "disciplinarian" of the household.

The Modern View: "New Fatherhood"

The concept of fatherhood has arguably seen an even bigger shift than motherhood. We now talk about the "New Father," which includes:

  • Emotional Involvement: Fathers are now expected to be emotionally close to their children and play an active role in their daily lives.
  • Hands-on Care: It is now socially normal (and expected) for fathers to attend births, change diapers, and attend school events.
  • Shared Responsibility: Many fathers view themselves as equal partners in childcare rather than just "helpers."
Key Takeaway Box

Traditional: Mother = Nurturer (Expressive); Father = Provider (Instrumental).
Modern: Both roles are becoming more fluid and interchangeable.

4. Why are these roles changing?

Sociologists look at several factors that have caused these shifts:

  1. Economic Changes: There are more jobs available for women, meaning mothers are no longer financially dependent on fathers.
  2. Social Policy: Laws like shared parental leave allow fathers to take time off work to care for newborns, changing the "breadwinner" dynamic.
  3. Changing Socialisation: Children are being socialised into less rigid gender roles, leading them to have different expectations when they become parents themselves.
  4. Technology: From formula milk to online parenting forums, technology has changed who can perform certain aspects of childcare.

5. Evaluating the Changes: Is it really equal?

While the concepts have changed, sociologists debate how much the reality has changed. This is where you can show your AO3 (Evaluation) skills!

  • The Liberal Feminist View: They argue that things are improving. More fathers are involved, and roles are becoming more equal through gradual social change and better laws.
  • The Radical and Marxist Feminist View: They are more skeptical. They argue that women still do the "heavy lifting" (the triple shift of housecare, childcare, and emotion work). They believe the concept of the "New Father" might be more of a myth than a reality for many families.
  • The Postmodernist View: They argue that there is no longer one "single" concept of motherhood or fatherhood. In a postmodern society, people have the choice to define their roles however they want.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Thinking that "traditional" roles have completely disappeared. Correction: Many families still follow traditional roles due to culture, religion, or personal choice.

Mistake 2: Focusing only on biology. Correction: Remember, Sociology is about socially constructed roles, not just who gives birth.

Mistake 3: Confusing "motherhood" with "housework." Correction: While they are related, "motherhood" refers specifically to the role and identity of being a parent, while "conjugal roles" (covered in another chapter) refers to the division of domestic tasks.

Quick Review Quiz

1. What term describes the idea that roles like "father" are created by society? (Answer: Social Construction)

2. Which perspective focuses on the Instrumental and Expressive roles? (Answer: Functionalism)

3. What do we call the concept of a father who is emotionally involved and shares childcare? (Answer: The "New Father")

Note: For more on how these roles affect the division of chores, see the chapter on "Conjugal roles: housework, childcare and emotion work."