Question

Which of the following was true of parenting in the nineteenth century and earlier?

a.Fathers were far more likely to have the final say in decisions about their children.
b.Mothers often valued other mothers' opinions about child rearing over the opinions of their own children's fathers.
c.The extended family was less important in terms of instrumental support.
d.Members of the community had far less influence than they do today.

Answer 1

In the nineteenth century, fathers generally had authority over child-rearing decisions, while mothers were seen as moral and nurturing figures within the home, often seeking child-rearing advice from other mothers. The extended family and community played vital roles in providing support and influencing parenting practices.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the nineteenth century and earlier, parenting roles and societal dynamics had distinct characteristics shaped by social and economic factors. Fathers were often viewed as the final authority in the household, having significant influence over decisions regarding their children. At the same time, mothers played a central role within the home, influenced by ideologies like the Cult of Domesticity, which stressed their role as nurturers and moral guides. Mothers frequently sought advice from other mothers rather than their husbands, valuing the shared experiences of child rearing within a community of women. The extended family played a crucial role in providing instrumental support, while community members also had a notable impact on parenting and the socialization of children, reflecting a more collective approach to raising the next generation.