INTRODUCTION: This study is entitled "African American Stepmothering Survey." The person directing this project is Dr. Deidre Hill Butler, Assistant Professor of Sociology at Union College Schenectady, New York. This document defines the terms and conditions for consenting to participate in this study.
DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY: This study is concerned with research centering on African American stepmothering. I will analyze how African American stepmothers define and enact their role. A second project entails comparing the testimonies I have collected to a theoretical discussion about “black othermothering” (P. Hill Collins) and “black-empowered mothering” (A. O’Reilly).
I am currently interviewing black stepmothers, and I will use the data I collect as the basis for a series of academic journal articles. I then plan to use the material in a book (working title: Othermothering in Motion: Parenting Styles of African American Stepmothers).
To find informants I have created a brief survey on the Web. All information collected will be kept strictly confidential and used only for the purposes of the project.
The definition of stepmother for this project is a woman of African descent who has parented, fostered, or raised a child or teenager of her partner or spouse. She may also be a birth or adoptive parent, but the project focuses on how she constructs her identity as a stepmother. Participation should take between 20 -25 minutes.
RISKS AND BENEFITS: There are no risks associated with this study beyond what would be expected by chance. In addition, the study will provide new information about African American stepmothers.
CONDITIONS OF PARTICIPATION: Participation is voluntary. Refusal to participate will involve no penalty or loss of benefits to which the subject is otherwise entitled. Furthermore, the participant may discontinue participation at any time without penalty or loss of benefits to which the participant is otherwise entitled.
CONFIDENTIALITY: Findings will be presented in aggregate form with no identifying information to ensure confidentiality. Participantsá names will be linked with their responses unless the participant specifically wishes to remain anonymous.
CONTACT FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT THE STUDY: Participants may contact Dr. Deidre Hill Butler at butlerd@union.edu with questions about the study.
PARTICIPANT ASSURANCE: I have read and understand the terms and conditions of this study and I hereby agree to participate in the above-described research study. I understand my participation is voluntary and that I may withdraw at any time without penalty.