Virtually Experts: Exploring constructions of mothers’ advice-seeking in online parenting communities

Mungham, Samantha and Lazard, Lisa (2011). Virtually Experts: Exploring constructions of mothers’ advice-seeking in online parenting communities. Radical Psychology: A Journal of Psychology, Politics, and Radicalism, 9(2)

URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20111109054140/http://...

Abstract

Predominant constructions of ‘expert’ parenting advice draw on and become framed by discourses of medical and/or psychological ‘expertise’ and of ‘self-help’ (e.g. Alldred, 1996). However, notions of the importance of advice become increasingly complex within constructions of ‘good’ mothering when mothers are positioned as ‘naturally’ providing the best childcare. This paper explores constructions of mothers’ use of parenting web forums as a site of advice and support. Semi-structured on-line interviews were conducted with five mothers who were recruited through parenting websites. Discursive analysis of the data highlighted how discourses around ‘good’ mothering, marginalised mothering experiences and experiential knowledges worked to position women who sought and gave advice as doing what is ‘best’ for their children. Implications that these constructions have for mothers are discussed.

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