Mothering
Mothering refers to the practices of caring for, guiding, and supporting the growth and well-being of one's offspring. While the term often denotes biological mothers, it also encompasses those who take on a mothering role through adoption, extended caregiving, or chosen family arrangements. Core activities include physical care, feeding, protection, socialization, and emotional support.
Developmental science highlights the importance of responsive, sensitive mothering for child development. Secure attachment and healthy
The concept of mothering is embedded in gendered expectations and family structures. Across societies, caregiving labor
Scholarly and policy discussions on mothering address identity, work–life balance, and the availability of parental leave,
Critiques of idealized portrayals of mothering emphasize that caregiving is demanding and may be undervalued or