Trauma and Mothering: An Autoethnography

Authors

  • Noreen Anne Cauley

Abstract

Sexual violence and mothering are prevalent events in women’s lives. However, they are not often studied together from a feminist perspective. This essay uses autoethnography to explore the parallels between sexual violence and mothering. Specifically, this essay examines the medical models of trauma and childbirth, Maushart’s “mask of motherhood,” rape myths, patriarchal mothering, and empowered mothering. I argue that more vigorous interrogations of the commonalities and differences of mothering and rape will open strategic avenues for female growth, learning, and empowerment.

Author Biography

Noreen Anne Cauley

Noreen Anne Cauley is a graduate student in the Faculty of Environmental Studies at York University. Her research explores the intersectionality of sexual violence and environmental destruction. She uses narrative- and arts-based based research to explore the challenges involved in healing from trauma in a culture where misogyny is deeply ingrained.

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How to Cite

Cauley, N. A. (2018). Trauma and Mothering: An Autoethnography. Journal of the Motherhood Initiative for Research and Community Involvement, 9(2). Retrieved from https://jarm3.journals.yorku.ca/index.php/jarm/article/view/40515

Issue

Journal of the Motherhood Initiative Vol 9, No 2 (2018)

Section

Contents

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