mothering

Mothering refers to a whole range of behaviors and relationships that involve caring, nurturing, and putting others’ needs first, as mothers typically do for their young. We may choose to mother our own children or others because we find it fulfilling, meaningful, and/or enjoyable. In patriarchal societies, we are expected to mother—to become pregnant and raise children, and to behave in “motherly” ways—simply because we are (perceived as) female.