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SLOAT THESIS pdf.pdf (478.55 KB)

ETD Abstract Container

Abstract Header

Exploring the Communicative Construction of Motherhood in Prison

Sloat, Madison F
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ouhonors155568753216959

Abstract Details

2019, Bachelor of Science of Communication Studies (BSC), Ohio University, Communication Studies.
This thesis explores the constructions of motherhood created and perpetuated by incarcerated mothers and correctional staff at two women’s prisons: a prison medical facility and a prison nursery program, both located in the United States. Findings from the interpretive analysis of the data—drawn from participant observations at both prisons and 52 interviews with inmates and prison staff—yielded one dominant construction of motherhood. Inmates and staff alike primarily focused on the constructed identity of a good mother. In line with this finding, four core themes emerged as significant: (a) motherhood as preeminent; (b) motherhood as feminine; (c) motherhood as growth; and (d) motherhood as sacrifice. These findings advanced scholarly conceptualizations of identity construction, particularly with respect to the juxtaposition of stigmatized (i.e., inmate) and valorized identities (i.e., mother) and can be further explained through a structurational lens. Practically, these findings suggest the need for continued dedicated support for incarcerated mothers through prison programming and positive messaging surrounding good motherhood.
Brittany Peterson, Dr. (Advisor)
102 p.
Communication; Criminology; Gender
women in prison; motherhood; communication; identity

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Sloat, M. F. (2019). Exploring the Communicative Construction of Motherhood in Prison [Undergraduate thesis, Ohio University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ouhonors155568753216959

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Sloat, Madison. Exploring the Communicative Construction of Motherhood in Prison. 2019. Ohio University, Undergraduate thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ouhonors155568753216959.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Sloat, Madison. "Exploring the Communicative Construction of Motherhood in Prison." Undergraduate thesis, Ohio University, 2019. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ouhonors155568753216959

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

ouhonors155568753216959
746
© 2019, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Ohio University Honors Tutorial College and OhioLINK.
Release 3.2.12