Constructions of motherhood in feminist and disability studies

Abstract

This theoretical essay analyzes proximities and distances between feminist and disability studies co ncerning care and motherhood constructions. It discusses the elaboration of a norm for human experiences; disability studies; feminist disability studies and the ethics of care; the social construction of a normative motherhood and its implications for women living with disabilities. Within feminist disability studies, women with disabilities or mothers of people with disabilities indicate that the patriarchal institution of motherhood challenges them differently, for they are not compelled, but discouraged from reproducing and providing care, being unfavorably positioned in the reproductive hierarchy. Based on their experiences, they reveal various possible motherhoods, beyond normative maternity.