Online Networks and Social Change

Mums’ Groups and the Patriarch: How online parenting communities reinforce patriarchal expectations of mothers

This paper explores the positive and negative implications of mothers using online parenting communities on Web 2.0 platforms such as blogs, forums and Facebook. I will argue that while there is evidence that shows these communities are a source of support for most members, there is a negative side that perpetuates patriarchal motherhood and traditional gender norms that can have a harmful effect on the users and how they interact within these communities.