A mother's role defined : employment messages communicated to mothers in the Southern Baptist convention

Abstract

Thesis (M.A.L.S.)--Georgetown University, 2010.; Includes bibliographical references.; Text (Electronic thesis) in PDF format. An in depth look at the messages communicated to Southern Baptist mothers about their roles in the labor market and within the family. Provides a general overview of the development of women's labor history, including recent trends regarding demands women are making for greater flexibility and work-life balance. The past twenty years have witnessed changes in the opinions mothers have regarding work and family, and such changes are further investigated within the Southern Baptist population. The messages communicated through formal and informal channels of the Southern Baptist Convention are presented and analyzed to determine the values being sent to church members. Denominational doctrinal statements, speeches and statements made by key leaders as well as Southern Baptist magazines are looked at in order to determine what guidance and direction the church gives mothers regarding employment. Public policy options geared toward American families are discussed and a recommendation is made for policies best suited for the Southern Baptist population.