Type:	Journal Article
Title:	More responsibilities, less control: understanding the challenges and difficulties involved in mothering in the context of domestic violence
Other Titles:	British journal of social work
Authors:	Lapierre, Simon
Keywords:	Pregnancy;Parenting;Representations of women
Year:	2010
Publisher:	British Association of Social Workers
Citation:	40 (5), July 2010
Notes:	Overview: This article reports on findings from a UK study concerning women’s experience of mothering in the context of domestic violence. In particular, it examines the challenges and difficulties in mothering women faced as a result of the abuse. Discussion: The author notes a dearth of empirical research conducted on mothering in the context of domestic violence. This paper draws on data collected from research with women conducted in the Midlands, England between 2004 and 2007, as part of a PhD course of study. The study involved interviews with twenty-six women in groups and individually, using qualitative and quantitative research methods. The article prioritises the inclusion of the voices of these women. This author contends that mothering in the context of domestic violence is extremely difficult. Mothers feel an increased sense of responsibility to protect children and yet a decreased capacity to be responsible for their children. The author notes that attacks on mothering and mother child relationships are central to abusers’ exercise of power and control. The author suggests that in order to provide appropriate support to mothers affected by domestic violence, professionals need to critically assess their own views of women’s responsibility in protecting children and unrealistic expectations of women as mothers in abusive relationships.
URI:	https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/15854
ISSN:	0045-3102
Appears in Collections:	Journal Articles

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