Final answer:
To be 'a good mother,' based on the studies, involves a balance of nurturing, prioritizing children's development, and adapting to societal and cultural expectations. Maternal feminism, cultural values, and variations in socio-economic parenting strategies all shape the concept of a good mother. The authoritative parenting style is commonly seen as beneficial in promoting a child's socioemotional growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the studies mentioned, being "a good mother" is defined by various societal and cultural factors. Historically, women have encountered the difficult balance between motherhood and their careers, facing societal expectations that they cannot be both "a good mother" and "a good worker" at the same time. The concept of maternal feminism suggests that women should take the nurturing and moral qualities traditionally associated with motherhood into wider societal roles. Annette Lareau's research outlines different parenting strategies between socio-economic classes, with lower-income families often emphasizing independence and growth, while higher-income families invest in actively fostering their children's talents and skills. This difference can influence the children's ability to negotiate and confront the system. The cultural values associated with motherhood often dictate that a good mother should prioritize her children above her own interests, thereby nurturing and sustaining growth.
Revised Crittenden argues that despite motherhood being termed the most important job, mothers are often taken for granted. Studies have shown that when mothers control a larger share of household resources, there is a beneficial impact on the family's spending choices and children's health. Finally, Diana Baumrind's research into parenting styles finds the authoritative style to be widely encouraged in American society, linking it to higher self-esteem and better social skills in children, though acknowledging cultural variations in parenting effectiveness.