The Influence of Mothers’ Upbringing on Our Personalities: A Comparative Study between the 1920s and 1970s

Our personalities are shaped by a multitude of factors, from the environment we grow up in to the cultural and socioeconomic conditions of the time. In this article, we delve into the fascinating ways in which our mothers’ upbringings during the 1920s and 1970s have influenced our personalities. We explore different aspects of motherly influence and how the starkly different histories of my childhood and my mother’s childhood have left indelible marks on our character.

Introduction

The 1920s, often referred to as the "Jazz Age," were marked by economic prosperity, cultural booms, and societal liberation. In contrast, the 1970s saw a shift in societal values and a backlash against the excesses of the 1960s. My mother’s upbringing during the 1920s and her teen years during the Great Depression of the 1930s contrast sharply with my own experience in the 1960s and 1970s. This article aims to explore how these differences have influenced our personalities and the unique traits we have developed.

The 1920s: A World of Liberation and Prosperity

During the 1920s, my mother experienced a period of economic and social liberation. The Roaring Twenties brought about significant advancements in technology and culture. Women’s rights were advancing, and women began to embrace new freedoms, including the emergence of the flapper style and a more independent lifestyle.

The cultural boom during this era led to a vibrant music scene, the rise of jazz, and the impact of new art movements. My mother’s experiences during this time likely fostered a sense of cultural awareness and individuality. The optimism and excitement of the 1920s could have influenced her to be more adventurous and open-minded, traits that she may have passed on to me.

The Great Depression of the 1930s: A Time of Economic Hardship

My mother’s teens were tainted by the economic devastation caused by the Great Depression. This period was marked by high unemployment, widespread poverty, and food shortages. The Great Depression profoundly affected the socio-economic fabric of society, leading to a more conservative and practical outlook among those who lived through it.

During these tough times, my mother would have developed a strong work ethic and resilience. This era likely instilled in her a sense of resourcefulness and determination, which she may have subtly imparted to me through her actions and attitudes. The experiences of the 1930s could have shaped her worldview and influenced her approach to life, which may now be reflected in my own personality traits.

The 1960s and 1970s: A Time of Cultural Shift and Social Change

My childhood in the 1960s and 1970s coincided with a period of significant social and cultural change. The 1960s brought about the counterculture movement, peace and love, and a questioning of traditional values. The 1970s saw a reaction against the excesses of the 1960s, leading to a more conservative and materialistic culture.

These decades fostered a more open and expressive environment, which influenced my mother’s parenting style. My mother, now having experienced both the liberation of the 1920s and the hardship of the 1930s, may have adopted a balanced approach to raising me. This would have involved nurturing my individuality while still instilling a strong work ethic and strong moral compass.

Maternal Influence and Personality Traits

The combination of my mother’s upbringing during the 1920s and 1930s likely contributed to her ability to navigate the challenges of the 1960s and 1970s. My personality traits reflect a blend of the adventurousness and cultural awareness she learned in the 1920s, the resilience and resourcefulness she developed during the Great Depression, and the openness and balance she exemplified during my upbringing in the 1960s and 1970s.

My mother’s influence is evident in my strong work ethic, my capacity for adaptation to different environments, and my ability to balance creativity with practicality. These traits were likely shaped by the unique combination of historical factors and the values and experiences my mother imparted to me over the years.

Conclusion

The influence of a mother’s upbringing can be profound in shaping the personality of her children. My mother’s experiences during the 1920s and 1930s left an indelible mark on her character, which she then passed on to me through her actions and attitudes. The resilience, creativity, and balance I have come to embody are likely a reflection of the diverse world she navigated as a child and teenager.

Understanding the historical and personal contexts that influence our personalities can help us appreciate the rich tapestry of human experience and the enduring impact of our mothers’ upbringings.