“Good” Mothering and the Question of Migrant Mothers at the Border

Abstract

This chapter uses qualitative content analysis to situate media reports about migrant families seeking to enter the United States. during the summer of 2018 within the literature about both motherhood and migrant families. Data analysis suggests that public discourse frames these mothers within polar extremes. These poles frame migrant mothers either as irresponsible, thoughtless mothers who recklessly place their children in danger or as brave and selfless mothers who are willing to endure incredible hardship to give their children a better life. This chapter demonstrates that migrant mothers are entering a culture that is hostile toward mothers. Current, contradictory frames of “good” and “bad” migrant mothers are difficult for the media and public to reconcile. While media reports of foster mothers may serve to reconcile these contradictions, they present problematic implications. Narrow constructions of motherhood are harmful for all mothers, but are acutely harmful to those who are most vulnerable. Current immigration policy reflects these cultural assumptions, and they must be challenged.