‘Dialling up’ and ‘dialling down’: Exploring the intensive mothering performances of Nigerian mothers in the UK

Worlu, Preye, Kerrane, Ben ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2114-5965 and Kerrane, Katy (2025) ‘Dialling up’ and ‘dialling down’: Exploring the intensive mothering performances of Nigerian mothers in the UK. Sociology. ISSN 0038-0385 (In Press)

Accepted Version File not available for download. Available under License In Copyright. Download (346kB)

Abstract

This paper examines how first-generation Nigerian mothers in the United Kingdom navigate and blend intensive motherhood practices with cultural transmission through foodwork. Drawing on qualitative interviews, we demonstrate how these mothers strategically ‘dial down’ and ‘dial up’ their cultural practices in different contexts. While publicly adhering to intensive motherhood ideals, they maintain cultural connections primarily through private spaces, especially through the preparation and consumption of Nigerian food. This necessitates engagement with informal ‘foodwork networks’ to source authentic ingredients. We introduce the concept of ‘integrated intensive’ motherhood, where traditional intensive motherhood practices are modified through necessary reliance on broader networks for cultural foodwork. We contribute to debates surrounding intensive motherhood by challenging its codification as exclusively white and middle-class, while also expanding understanding of how migrant mothers negotiate cultural transmission through foodwork practices within dominant societal structures. Keywords: display, family, food, foodwork, Intensive motherhood, Nigeria