The Jewish Mother Stereotype

If you are Jewish and a mother, you are automatically labeled a "Jewish Mother." That puts you in an extremely pejorative category.

The stereotypical Jewish Mother is a nagging, overprotective, manipulative, controlling, smothering, and overbearing mother, one who is often getting involved in her children's lives long after they have grown up. (Rachel Josefowitz. Jewish Mothers Tell Their Stories: Acts of Love and Courage)

I don't believe in stereotypes, neither for myself nor for others. But I do think that our histories have a huge impact on our current behavior.

Therefore - since I do have a very loving but controlling Jewish mother - I have to work at listening without interfering into my married children's lives. This is ironic, since my profession is one that requires active listening skills.

My weakness shows what happens when a mother's anxiety interferes with her common sense.

However, for every negative there is a positive. Thus, if we Jewish mothers channel our anxiety about our children into more productive avenues, we have much to contribute to society. Many organizations, both professional and voluntary, are headed by lapsed "Jewish Mothers" - Jewish or not.

Viva la mere!