“Feminism Begins at Home”: The Influence of Mother Gender Socialization on Daughter Career andMotherhood Aspirations as Channeled Through Daughter Feminist Identification

Abstract

The current study examines the role of mother gender socialization in the formation of daughter feminist identity, feelings about self, and future aspirations. Guided by Gender Schema Theory (Martin & Ruble, 2004) and Identity Theory (Stryker & Burke, 2000), findings indicate that encouragement of stereotypically feminine activities related to increased well-being and aspirations; discouragement of masculine-oriented behaviors, however, was particularly disadvantageous for daughter development. Feminist identification served as a mediator between gender socialization (encouragement of education for marriage and family and discouragement of other-gender characteristics) and daughter present and future selves. Together, findings indicate the importance of encouraging daughters to incorporate both the feminine and masculine “domains” as a valued part of their daily activities.

Keywords::

• Career Aspirations
• Feminism
• Gender Socialization
• Mother-Daughter Communication
• Well-Being

The authors would like to thank the Organization for Research on Women and Communication for their support of this research.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Colleen Warner Colaner

Colleen Warner Colaner (Ph.D., University of Nebraska, 2011) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Missouri.

Christine E. Rittenour

Christine E. Rittenour (Ph.D., University of Nebraska, 2009) is an Assistant Professor at West Virginia University.