Introduction

This introductory chapter positions the book within debates in feminist literature on mothering, including the interrogation of dominant constructions of good/bad mothers. It discusses the intersectional feminist theoretical lens, from a social constructionist and radical perspective, arguing that intersectional feminist knowledge is pertinent for researchers, policy-makers and practitioners working with mothers. As well, it outlines the aims of the book and introduces the chapters contributed by esteemed multidisciplinary scholars from different countries. This first chapter provides a rationale for focusing on the complexities of the lived experiences of mothers by challenging dominant imaginings and representations of mothers.