In The Not Good Enough Mother, Sharon Lamb discusses her role as a psychologist who is often asked to be an expert witness for the Department of Child and Family. Lamb’s role is to provide her observations, knowledge and expertise through assessments of children and parents in order to testify regarding children’s attachment to parents. Most often, these assessments are completed on mothers, and a determination is then made if a child can safely be returned to the care of their parent. Lamb therefore makes these observations through various forms of play between the mother and the child as well as observing and speaking to the child before testifying in court. At the same time, Lamb notes the unequal burden or services that mothers are expected to participate in, whereas fathers are often absent or receive fewer services in order to reunify.

Even though there are many reasons as to why children may be removed from the care of their biological parents, substance use, especially heavy substance abuse, is one of the main reasons why the Department of Child and Family are involved in the lives of families. Therefore, throughout the process of describing the stages of assessment, the impact that drug use often has on a parent’s ability to safely parent, is frequently brought up, but it is not always the only concern. Substance abuse also contributes to other issues when it comes to the ability to parent, such as intimate partner violence, the sexual abuse of young children (allowing strangers to spend time in one’s home), neglectful behavior and physical abuse. The impact that drug use has on families is vital to understanding the families that Lamb works with.

Lamb does not only write from a professional standpoint, but also from a deeply personal one. What is so interesting and inspirational about the book is Lamb’s own accounts about her childhood, raising her own children and the struggles of having one of her own children dealing with a serious substance abuse issue. These stories are woven in amongst the discussions about parents and explanations of assessments and accounts of interactions with young children and their parents. Lamb does not hold back in her own assessment of her life, her professional career and in questioning and pondering about her own parenting. 

The book is an interesting read and it is difficult not to empathize with the emotions and struggles that Lamb so eloquently describe, especially when working in Child Welfare, or being in a professional role working alongside social workers, mental health professionals and lawyers. The book is especially important for those working as psychologists, counselors and for those working with children in various organizations, which includes students in the above-mentioned fields. It is important to note that when making assessments and recommendations, Lamb points out that the “best interest of the child” is crucial to keep in mind. When focusing on the welfare of children, suspending judgment and being unbiased in observations is crucial when making assessments regarding safety and risk.

Ⓒ 2019 Hennie Weiss 

Hennie Weiss has a master’s degree in Sociology from CSUS and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Social Work from CSUS. Her academic interests also include women’s studies and feminism.

Categories: General

Keywords: psychology, mothering