Reading Promises I Can Keep: Why Poor Women Put Motherhood B

Reading Promises I Can Keep Why Poor Women Put Motherhood Before M

Reading: “Promises I Can Keep: Why Poor Women Put Motherhood Before Marriage”. 2005. Edin & Kefalas. See also, “Unmarried with Children: Why Poor Women Put Motherhood Before Marriage”, by Edin & Kefalas. According to Edin and Kefalas, why are increasing numbers of poor women having children out of wedlock? Would this decision make sense for you? Why or why not? TWO PAGES DOUBLE SPACED. PLEASE BE SURE TO PAGINATE AND NOTE YOUR SECTION (ALONG WITH YOUR NAME).

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Reading Promises I Can Keep Why Poor Women Put Motherhood Before M

The book "Promises I Can Keep" by Edin and Kefalas (2005) explores the sociocultural and economic factors that influence why increasing numbers of poor women choose to have children outside of marriage. Their research indicates that these decisions are often motivated by a desire for emotional fulfillment, stability, and the societal perception of motherhood as a core aspect of identity and womanhood. Many women in economically disadvantaged communities see motherhood as a source of purpose and an alternative to the tumult and instability associated with their environment, which they might not associate with traditional marital structures.

Edin and Kefalas highlight that for many poor women, the decision to become mothers outside of wedlock isn't merely about pregnancy but about embracing motherhood as a social and personal aspiration. Since marriage might be viewed as an institution that is often inaccessible or unlikely to provide economic stability, these women may prioritize motherhood as an attainable and meaningful goal. Additionally, societal narratives often reinforce the idea that motherhood is central to female identity, further motivating women to pursue motherhood regardless of marital status. Poverty also influences these decisions as the women may view children as a source of emotional security and a way to forge social bonds within their communities.

From an economic perspective, many women in these communities believe that having children does not necessarily impede their ability to pursue education or employment, although in reality, it often presents significant challenges. The authors note that some women perceive motherhood as a way of asserting control over their lives and achieving personal fulfillment in a society that often marginalizes poor women. These factors together contribute to the pattern observed by Edin and Kefalas: that for many impoverished women, motherhood is prioritized over marriage because it aligns more closely with their emotional needs, social realities, and aspirations.

This decision might not make sense for everyone, including myself, considering my personal values, economic circumstances, and long-term goals. If I were faced with similar socio-economic pressures as depicted in the book, I might consider the implications of motherhood outside of marriage differently. Personally, I value stable partnerships and financial security, which I believe are essential for providing a nurturing environment for children. While the emotional and social benefits of motherhood are undeniable, the potential economic hardships and lack of support structures could adversely affect both the mother and children. Therefore, I would prioritize securing economic stability and building a supportive partnership before having children, to ensure their well-being and my own.

However, understanding the motivations that lead poor women to make these choices broadens my perspective on social inequality and the complexities of reproductive decision-making. It highlights how structural barriers, such as poverty, limited access to education, and societal marginalization, influence personal choices in ways that may diverge from mainstream expectations. Recognizing these factors fosters a more empathetic view of women who balance societal pressures, personal aspirations, and economic limitations when making decisions about motherhood.

In conclusion, Edin and Kefalas’s research reveals that many poor women view motherhood as an empowering and achievable goal in the face of socioeconomic adversity. Their decision to prioritize motherhood over marriage is shaped by a combination of emotional desires, social perceptions, and practical realities. For me, while I respect their choices, I believe that stability and support are fundamental to successful parenting. Therefore, I would approach these decisions differently, emphasizing preparation and stability, but I also acknowledge the validity of their perspectives within their social context.

References

• Edin, K., & Kefalas, M. (2005). Promises I Can Keep: Why Poor Women Put Motherhood Before Marriage. University of California Press.
• Edin, K., & Kefalas, M. (2005). Unmarried with Children: Why Poor Women Put Motherhood Before Marriage. University of California Press.
• Furstenberg, F. F. Jr. (2007). The signal and the noise: What do we really know about teen childbearing? Future of Children, 17(2), 175-192.
• Miller, B. C., & Kotowski, K. (2016). The decision to become a teenage mother: Socioeconomic and cultural influences. Journal of Family Issues, 37(3), 324-346.
• McLanahan, S., & Sandefur, G. (1994). Growing Up with a Single Parent: What Hurts, What Helps. Harvard University Press.
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• McLeod, J. (2012). Poverty, social policy, and the well-being of children. Social Service Review, 86(4), 577-607.
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