Women And Caregiving Article Reviews Example

What is the main point of the reading?

The main point of the reading is that gender biases and double standards materialize in perceptions about caregiving. The authors focused on exploring and differentiating maximalist and minimalist perspectives of caregiving in relation to women and feminist concepts. Hence, the authors explored the two ends of the spectrum that highlight opposing views about caregiving. In so doing, the authors discussed aspects of caregiving that attach this practice and responsibility to women and femininity. The prevalent understanding of motherhood, for instance, relate innate caregiving capabilities to women. The authors asserted that social views about caregiving and the way that recipients of care view caregiving affect perceptions of women as caregivers. In the end, the authors proposed and recommended a feminist view of caregiving that goes beyond gender. For the authors, caregiving must be seen as an act that is done towards another regardless of factors such as gender, race or ethnicity, and age among others. Caregiving must also be taught to both boys and girls so they would understand their role in providing care for others as a responsibility rather than an act done merely by girls or women. Overall, the authors asserted that caregiving must be a responsibility for all regardless of gender.
How do you react to the reading based on your (a) experience and feelings (b) critical judgment of the evidence supporting the author’s position and claims?
I agree with the authors’ arguments in the article. Based on personal experience, I too have had gender biases and double standards when it comes to caregiving. Nonetheless, I understand that these biases result from socially established views and perceptions about caregiving and the more prevalent role of women in providing care. I strongly agree that if we change our views about caregiving, we would be able to establish a caring community where everyone takes responsibility for the wellbeing of others. The authors supported the discussion with relevant and understandable feminist theories that explores the roles and responsibilities of human beings in providing care for others regardless of gender.

References

Baber, K. M. & Allen, K. R. (1992). Women and families: Feminist reconstructions. New York, NY: The Guilford Press.