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Figuring Families: Generation, Situation and Narrative in Contemporary Mothering

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  • Mary Jane Kehily
  • Rachel Thomson

Abstract

This 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.

Suggested Citation

  • Mary Jane Kehily & Rachel Thomson, 2011. "Figuring Families: Generation, Situation and Narrative in Contemporary Mothering," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 16(4), pages 164-173, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socres:v:16:y:2011:i:4:p:164-173
    DOI: 10.5153/sro.2536
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jacqui Gabb & Elizabeth B. Silva, 2011. "Introduction to Critical Concepts: Families, Intimacies and Personal Relationships," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 16(4), pages 104-108, December.
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    Cited by:

    1. Anna-Maija Castrén & Kaisa Ketokivi, 2015. "Studying the Complex Dynamics of Family Relationships: A Figurational Approach," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 20(1), pages 108-121, February.
    2. Jennifer Kettle, 2016. "‘I Can't Settle If It's Not Tidy; I Blame that on My Mum’: Exploring Women's Relational Household Work Narratives," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 21(4), pages 30-43, November.

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