Issue Analysis
After reading the selected critical issue, use the following questions to analyze the issue. The work count for individual questions may vary but your responses should total 750- to 1,050-words for the entire worksheet.
1. What are some of the strengths associated with the Pro side of the issue? What are some of the weaknesses? Pro “Opting Out” The Pro side of the issue encourages women to make the decision to “opt-out” due to childrearing and family commitment. The most significant strength of the Pro side is that it benefits children who would otherwise spend plenty of time in daycares or with a babysitter. According to DebatePedia (2010) “As early childhood is the most formative period of development for a child it is important that a mother has as much time to devote to her children as possible.” Early childhood is crucial in the development of a child, which is why women are choosing to take a prominent role during this important stage of the child’s life. In addition to being present during early childhood development, women who “opt out” ensure a brighter future for society as a whole by aiding in optimal development of the child so that the child has the best possible opportunities in the long run (college, career etc.). There are also weaknesses associated with “opting out.” Women may become resentful towards their husbands or children because they abandoned their professional goals to raise a family. Most women pursue a college education in hopes to ensure a good career, and by “opting out” they are giving up some of their original aspirations. They may also experience bouts of depression as they struggle with their independence apart from their family unit. Obenshain (2007) states that, “Especially in professional and middle-class circles, it is often rather shameful to
References: DebatePedia. (2010). Should Mother’s stay at home to raise their children? Retrieved January 31, 2011 from http://debatepedia.idebate.org/en/index.php/Debate:_Should_mothers_stay_at_home_to_raise_their_children Guest, A. (2011). Taking sides: Clashing views in life-span development (3rd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill. Obenshain, K. (2007). Giving it all up: one woman’s decision to stay home to raise her children. Retrieved January 31, 2011 from http://www.cblpi.org/resources/speech.cfm?ID=24