A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What was a common source of pressure for mothers from both social classes as noted by Vincent et al. (2007)?

1. Financial stability

2. Community support

3. Expectations to be stay-at-home mothers

4. Access to family resources

The correct answer is: Expectations to be stay-at-home mothers

The choice reflecting the common source of pressure for mothers from both social classes, as identified by Vincent et al. (2007), is centered around the societal expectations for mothers to take on the role of stay-at-home caregivers. This expectation creates a significant pressure regardless of the economic status of the family. Mothers often feel compelled to prioritize their roles at home over professional aspirations, leading to feelings of guilt or inadequacy if they choose to pursue careers instead. The pressure to conform to traditional gender roles, particularly the expectation of being primary caregivers, can manifest in various ways: conflicting emotions about work-life balance, societal judgment, and internalized beliefs about femininity and motherhood. Such pressures can lead mothers to navigate their choices between work and home life with a sense of obligation to these traditional roles, highlighting the broader cultural norms that impact women's lives across different socioeconomic backgrounds. As for the other options, they each represent factors that can influence a mother's experience, but they do not encapsulate the widespread social pressure as effectively as the expectation to be a stay-at-home mother. Financial stability involves concerns about resources but does not directly address the societal expectations tied to motherhood. Community support can vary widely and may not be universally experienced across social classes. Access to family resources