Criticisms of the "maternal instinct" as an explanation for childbearing include
A)recognizing powerful socialization forces directed at instilling this "instinct" in girls.
B)the existence of abortion as a feature of human societies throughout history.
C)the existence of infanticide as a feature of human societies throughout history.
D)All the above are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All of the options listed in the question are valid criticisms of the idea of the "maternal instinct" as a universal explanation for childbearing. Girls and women are socialized from an early age to believe that motherhood is a fundamental aspect of their identity, which can make it difficult to separate genuine autonomy and desire from internalized cultural expectations. Abortion and infanticide have been features of human societies throughout history, suggesting that not all women necessarily experience a natural or innate drive to bear and care for children. Therefore, all of the options provided are accurate criticisms of the idea of the "maternal instinct."

Criticisms of the "Maternal Instinct" as an Explanation for Childbearing