Militant Lactivism?: Attachment Parenting and Intensive Motherhood in the UK and France

The author profiles the narratives of women who breastfeed their children to full term as part of an attachment parenting philosophy, arguing that parenting practices have become a highly moralized affair for mothers. The book investigates why, how, and with what implications some mothers describe themselves as militant lactivists and reflects on wider parenting culture in the UK and France.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 278 pages
\n Publication date: 16 July 2021
\n Publisher: Berghahn Books
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The author delves into the captivating stories of women in London and Paris who choose to breastfeed their children to full term, often spanning several years, as part of an attachment parenting philosophy. These remarkable mothers openly share their decision to continue breastfeeding as the most natural, scientifically proven, and deeply fulfilling choice for them. They view it as an evolutionary necessity, a testament to their scientific knowledge, and a profound expression of their innermost emotions. By employing a theoretical lens focused on knowledge claims and accountability, the author contextualizes these narratives within the broader realm of intensive parenting. She argues that infant feeding, particularly breastfeeding, has become a highly moralized domain for mothers, a facet of their identity work that they consider paramount. Through her in-depth exploration, the author seeks to understand the reasons, methods, and consequences behind some of these mothers identifying as militant lactivists. Additionally, the book reflects on the broader parenting culture in the UK and France, shedding light on the societal attitudes and expectations surrounding motherhood and child-rearing. By delving into gender, feminism, and activism, this study makes valuable contributions to the field of kinship and family studies. It explores the intricate ways in which relatedness is enacted alongside the construction of the self, offering a fresh perspective on the complex dynamics of motherhood and family life.

\n Weight: 406g\n
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 19 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781800730137\n \n