Lesbian mothers and the motherhood hierarchy

Societal values determine the appropriateness of motherhood. These values are reflected by a society that believes the married heterosexual woman to be the most appropriate to parent. It is these appropriate mothers who form the apex of a three-tiered hierarchy that consists of women who are defined as (a) most appropriate, (b) marginally appropriate, or (c) least appropriate. This paper explores lesbian motherhood within the social context of American society. The "motherhood hierarchy" is presented as a conceptual framework for viewing lesbian mothers, and evidence from the literature supporting the existence of this hierarchy is integrated throughout the discussion. Special attention is paid to the inappropriate mother, and focus is placed on the antilesbian mythology that supports it.