Annotated Bibliography
Aronson, Kimberly M. Rodham, and Buchholz, Ester Schaler. “The Post-Feminist Era: Still Striving for Equality in Relationships.” American Journal of Family Therapy, vol. 29, no. 2, Mar. 2001, pp. 109–24. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.cwi.idm.oclc.org/10.1080/01926180152026106.
In “The Post-Feminist Era: Still Striving for Equality in Relationships” researchers Buchholz and Aronson discuss the limitations and needs for a society that allows women to be an equal part of society. Throughout the article, the authors discuss several common problems that arise in gender dynamics, such as the separate and different socialization of men and women. In addition, they discuss ways to challenge stereotypes, why society hasn’t changed, what men and women can do to promote equality, and much more. This work fits well with the themes of “The Last Grownup” and goes into great detail why women like Debra end up in the situation in the story, why the gender dynamics of the situation are that way, and provides possible solutions for those problems. This article was certainly written by two post-feminists, which helps with writing from a similar lens, but it could provide some limitations as far as the sources it uses and the arguments it provides. One of the most important sections of the work examines the mental health issues that can arise from gender socialization in men and women, which can be used to break down the inner workings of the characters in “The Last Grownup” by explaining the emotional differences between sexes due to their upbringing.
Avery, Evelyn. “Allegra Goodman’s Fiction: From the Suburbs to ‘Gan Eden.’” Studies in American Jewish Literature (1981-), vol. 22, 2003, pp. 36–45. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/41205980.
The document, “Allegra Goodman’s Fiction: From the Suburbs to ‘Gan Eden’” by Evelyn Avery, looks at the literary evolution of Allegra Goodman’s works. The analysis highlights Goodman’s portrayal of Jewish-American life, focusing on themes like identity, tradition, and cultural assimilation. Avery explores how Goodman’s fiction transitions from suburban, middle-class settings to more profound explorations of spiritual and existential issues, often referencing the concept of “Gan Eden” (Paradise). The study also emphasizes Goodman’s nuanced depiction of characters who navigate the tensions between modern secular life and traditional Jewish values. Avery examines how Goodman weaves intricate family dynamics into broader narratives of cultural change, showcasing her ability to make intimate struggles resonate universally. The document delves into Goodman’s exploration of gender roles, particularly in the context of faith and tradition, providing a fresh perspective on the evolving identities of Jewish women. Avery further highlights the rich interplay of humor and introspection in Goodman’s writing, noting how her use of irony underscores the challenges of preserving cultural heritage in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, the analysis reflects on Goodman’s ability to blend literary sophistication with accessibility, appealing to both Jewish and non-Jewish readers. Ultimately, Avery portrays Goodman as a masterful storyteller whose work bridges the personal and the universal.
Berger, Brigitte. “The Social Roots of Prosperity and Liberty.” Society, vol. 35, no. 3, Mar. 1998, pp. 44–53. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.cwi.idm.oclc.org/10.1007/BF02686135.
Brigitte Berger’s article explores the complex relationship between family structures and larger socioeconomic and political systems. She argues that families not only adapt to but also reinforce societal norms, particularly those tied to class stratification and economic stability. Berger highlights how familial roles and expectations often perpetuate systemic inequalities, shaping individual experiences and reinforcing societal power structures. This analysis is especially pertinent to Goodman’s The Last Grownup, where the protagonist’s struggles with familial obligations reflect broader themes of economic dependency and gendered caregiving roles. Berger’s insights shed light on how families act as conduits for systemic forces, reinforcing economic and social inequalities that constrain individual agency. By situating familial dynamics within a larger sociopolitical context, Berger enriches the Marxist critique of Goodman’s narrative. Her argument that families sustain power structures aligns with Goodman’s portrayal of intergenerational dynamics, where systemic economic pressures and societal expectations shape the protagonist’s challenges. This article provides a critical framework for understanding the family as both a product and perpetuator of capitalist systems, offering valuable insights for analyzing the interplay between personal struggles and broader socioeconomic forces in Goodman’s story.
Few-Demo, April L., et al. “It’s All About Power: Integrating Feminist Family Studies and Family Communication.” Journal of Family Communication, vol. 14, no. 2, Apr. 2014, pp. 85–94. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.cwi.idm.oclc.org/10.1080/15267431.2013.864295.
This article aims to assist with continued post-feminist approaches to family studies and communication by providing information on the necessary methods, strategies, and considerations needed to continue research in this area. The authors argue that women’s livelihoods and their families have always been interwoven, particularly in a way that is inequitable. In addition, it covers the basic concepts post-feminists have employed so far, such as deconstructing the idea of white men being the “ideal” for communication and power as well as women’s roles in families in the first place. Overall, this article’s argument is summarized: “Feminist family studies begins but does not end with gender. Gender is a primary way in which families are structured and power is distributed in families, but the power structure is complicated by intersections with race, ethnicity, class, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, and ability,” (Few-Demo). “It’s All About Power” works as an excellent resource to explain the basics of Post-Feminist family studies and provides some incredible insight about the ways that one’s many identities can shape a person’s experiences. For “The Last Grownup”, the article goes into detail about the power dynamics that women face, family communication in a feminist lens, and family studies’ role in feminism.
Franklin, Adrian S. “On Loneliness.” Geografiska Annaler. Series B, Human Geography, vol. 91, no. 4, 2009, pp. 343–54. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/40405862.
Adrian S. Franklin’s article “On Loneliness” attempts understand what loneliness means in modern-day society, how our society has impacted the emotional aspects, frequency, impact, and various dimensions of loneliness. Drawing on several other articles and surveys, Franklin recognizes that loneliness is rapidly becoming more prominent in today’s society due to a variety of reasons. As individuals strive to garner more freedom and choice in their daily decisions without the aid of partners or others, loneliness is become a larger problem. Throughout the article, there is a ready confession of the lack of knowledge concerning what loneliness fully entails; however, there are several aspects to loneliness that can be understood in certain measures. Adrian Franklin points out and discusses the several dimensions to loneliness including the emotional and social impacts, the ontological and physical effects, as well as the frequency and level depending on the age, gender, and other factors. Franklin concludes the article by pointing out the cures for loneliness that society has been incorporating more and more including but not limited to companion animals and internet relationships, and recognizing that our society may try to develop into an asocial society, but even those who try to fantasize it realize that no matter what, there will always be a search for companionship versus loneliness. This article would mainly be a great use to reader response critical reviews; however, it can also be used in other types of critical review.
Goodman, Allegra. The Last Grownup. The New Yorker, October 25, 2021, https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2021/10/25/the-last-grownup.
Allegra Goodman’s short story, first published in The New Yorker, delves into the intricacies of adulthood, familial obligations, and the economic struggles of contemporary life. The narrative centers on a middle-aged protagonist grappling with caregiving responsibilities, professional stagnation, and unrealized personal ambitions. Through richly developed characters and an acute focus on intergenerational relationships, Goodman critiques the societal and economic structures that confine individuals within rigid roles and expectations. The story is particularly valuable for a Marxist analysis, as it examines themes of alienation, economic determinism, and the commodification of domestic labor. Goodman underscores how systemic inequalities shape the protagonist’s circumstances, limiting their agency and reinforcing a sense of entrapment. The economic precarity and familial pressures depicted in the story highlight the broader mechanisms of capitalism that perpetuate class stratification and exploit labor within the domestic sphere. By portraying the protagonist’s internal and external struggles, Goodman provides a compelling case study for understanding Marxist concepts such as class conflict, the devaluation of caregiving, and the intersection of economic and emotional burdens. This narrative serves as a profound critique of modern capitalism, making it a critical text for exploring the societal forces that shape individual and familial dynamics.
Harrison-Kahan, Lori, and Allegra Goodman. “Total Immersion: An Interview with Allegra Goodman.” MELUS, vol. 37, no. 4, 2012, pp. 187–202. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/42001192.
“Total Immersion: An Interview with Allegra Goodman” by Lori Harrison-Kahan explores the literary evolution and themes of Allegra Goodman’s work. The interview delves into Goodman’s diverse oeuvre, from early short stories to acclaimed novels like Kaaterskill Falls. Goodman discusses how her Jewish identity, Hawaiian upbringing, and academic background inform her exploration of spirituality, cultural identity, and generational tensions. Her works, including The Family Markowitz and The Cookbook Collector, balance satire and deep spiritual inquiry while addressing topics such as assimilation, tradition, and the sacred-secular divide. Goodman reflects on stylistic influences, notably Tolstoy and Austen, and her shift from being labeled an “ethnic” or “Jewish” writer to embracing broader creative freedom. She highlights how her characters navigate complex personal and societal challenges, drawing readers into narratives that resonate across cultural boundaries. The conversation also examines her views on the intersection of literature and technology, her writing process, and her evolving audience. Goodman emphasizes the enduring importance of storytelling as a means to preserve cultural memory while fostering empathy and connection. Additionally, she shares insights into the balance between creating art that is both deeply personal and universally relevant. The discussion provides a compelling look at Goodman’s commitment to creativity, experimentation, and profound engagement with universal human experiences, offering a window into the mind of one of contemporary literature’s most thoughtful and versatile voices.
Harvey, John H., and Eric D. Miller. “Toward a Psychology of Loss.” Psychological Science, vol. 9, no. 6, 1998, pp. 429–34. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/40063352.
John Harvey and Eric Miller’s article “Toward a Psychology of Loss” proposes that loss is something that could have a psychology section dedicated to it, something that could be a field in itself. This article contends that there is room for the evolvement of an educational or professional field of loss geared toward an individual’s experiences and perception of loss in their lives as well as those around them. According to them, the concept of loss can be further defined, discussed, and studied with its various parts such as trauma, stress, coping strategies, and much more. Harvey and Miller recognize that death, divorce, job loss, injury, illness, war, and prejudice are all leading causes of the feeling of loss in individuals, whether or not it may seem important to others. Their article points out the difficulty of coming to an all-encompassing definition and understanding of what loss is and what it entails, thus advocating for a new research field. According to Harvey and Miller, people often create little stories and memories that remind them of their loss but also in some ways help them cope. This article is great for background information of the common ideas of what loss entails and how it affects individuals. It can especially be used in a reading response critical view, as well as psychology and other critical views.
Hosokawa, Rikuya, et al. “Associations between Family Routines, Family Relationships, and Children’s Behavior.” Journal of Child & Family Studies, vol. 32, no. 12, Dec. 2023, pp. 3988–98. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.cwi.idm.oclc.org/10.1007/s10826-023-02687-w.
This empirical study investigates the effects of economic instability on family routines, relationships, and children’s behavioral outcomes. The authors demonstrate that financial precarity disrupts familial cohesion by increasing stress and creating tension, which often manifests in children as behavioral challenges. These findings are particularly relevant to Goodman’s The Last Grownup, where the protagonist’s family is portrayed as struggling with fractured relationships stemming from economic pressures. Hosokawa et al.’s focus on the psychological and behavioral impacts of financial stress provides a valuable framework for analyzing the protagonist’s internal and external conflicts. By illustrating how economic conditions shape family dynamics and individual behavior, the study reinforces Marxist critiques of Goodman’s narrative. It highlights how systemic forces—such as stagnant wages, rising living costs, and inadequate social safety nets—exacerbate familial tensions, constraining personal development and perpetuating inequality. The research deepens understanding of Goodman’s depiction of a family ensnared in economic dependency, emphasizing how capitalism’s structural inequities undermine familial stability and individual agency. This article serves as an essential resource for examining how socioeconomic factors influence not only family life but also broader societal structures, making it a critical lens for interpreting Goodman’s story through a Marxist perspective.
Jeffrey, Scott. A Beginner’s Guide to Jungian Archetypes: 15+ Classic Images. https://scottjeffrey.com/classic-jungian-archetypes/.
Scott Jeffrey is the founder of CEOsage, a self-leadership resource that publishes in-depth guides read by millions of self-actualizing individuals. He writes about self-development, practical psychology, Eastern philosophy, and integrated practices. For 25 years, Scott was a business coach to high-performing entrepreneurs, CEOs, and best-selling authors. He’s the author of four books, including Creativity Revealed. In A Beginner’s Guide to Jungian Archetypes Jeffrey provides not just a list and explanation but provides insight into how to look at character archetypes as Jung meant and intended them to be understood both in literature and in real life.
Johnson, Robert A. The Fisher King and the Handless Maiden: Understanding the Wounded Feeling Function in Masculine and Feminine Psychology. HarperOne, 1995.
Robert A. Johnson a noted lecturer and Jungian analyst, is also the author of ‘He, She, We, Inner Work, Ecstasy, Transformation’, and ‘Owning Your Own Shadow, dives into the wounded feeling function in The Fisher King and the Handless Maiden: Understanding the Wounded Feeling Function in Masculine and Feminine Psychology. Specifically, when a wound has become so common in a culture/society that it fails to recognize how disabling it can be for the individual to experience the inability to find joy or move on with everyday life after painful major changes. His insightful analysis shows the two stories, created centuries ago, are even more relevant today and very much applicable to the characters of Debra and Richard in Goodman’s The Last Grownup.
Jung, C. G. Collected Works of C. G. Jung, Volume 9 (Part 1): Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious. Princeton University Press, 2014.
G. Jung (1875–1961) was one of the most important psychologists of the twentieth century. The Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious feature many of Jung’s most important essays describing and elaborating on these two central, related concepts in depth by dream analysis and characteristics of therapy patients. In this volume, Jung states that although he’s diving into these archetypes humans are all individual complexes of different archetypes and those dominant positive or negative features uniquely manifest in one’s personality. He, thus, also states that learning all archetypes is pointless as there are far too many and can be far too complicated to strictly paint them as is (especially due to the relationship of persona, shadow, and anima/animus within the individual).
Lee, Helene K. “‘Girls Can Kick Ass … Without Being Angry’: Practices of Alignment, Postfeminism, and the Production of Niceness in the Face of Sexism in Work and Family Lives1.” Sociological Forum, vol. 38, no. 2, June 2023, pp. 443–59. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.cwi.idm.oclc.org/10.1111/socf.12888.
“Girls Can Kick Ass … Without Being Angry” discusses the concepts of “girlpower”, choice, work, and emotional labor as well as thoughts from 19 upper middle class, highly educated women that have a lot in common with the main character from “The Last Grownup”. The article covers topics such as the invisible barrier for women for being pregnant or mothers, the difficulty of working as a woman, having to be nice to get ahead, and includes tons of quotes from real women on all these issues that provide real world examples of women experiencing the issues Debra faces in the short story. Throughout the article, Helene Lee explains the façade of freedom that many women face as part of the working world and their families. Additionally, Lee brings in numerous examples of other work by modern Feminists who discuss the issues that are present in “The Last Grownup” such as women feeling the need to “do it all” and “have it all” while criticizing the notion that success in that way is possible for women in the status quo. The most interesting sections of this article are quotes from the 19 women Lee interviewed who all describe incredibly similar experiences to Debra in varying degrees.
Long, L. Ed.D. Critical Worlds, Part Seven: Psychological Criticism, What Is Psychological Criticism? Pressbooks, 2024.
Liza Long Ed. D. is an associate professor of English and the chair of the General Studies committee at the College of Western Idaho in her textbook Critical Worlds, Part Seven, talks about how to utilize the critical lens of Psychological criticism to literary works and the essentials to Jungian and Freudian analysis of a text. In The Last Grownup, her emphasis is on the unconscious presence of the Jungian Archetypes, meaning that though the character’s choices are descriptive of their psyche, they are not deliberate to fit into certain archetypes. Rather, they are present in the collective unconscious of every human and draw from there to shape their “true self”. Her academic yet down-to-earth description is particularly applicable to reading texts with a critical lens and looking at the characters’ conscious and unconscious actions such as Debra’s desire for a third child and to be a mother has never been explained despite the hardships she had to go through alone to raise the first too, but described as being strong regardless. Or Richard’s flinching when she mentions “the thing” in Goodman’s The Last Grownup.
Modalsli, Jørgen. “Multigenerational Persistence: Evidence from 146 Years of Administrative Data.” Journal of Human Resources, vol. 58, no. 3, May 2023, pp. 929–61. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.cwi.idm.oclc.org/10.3368/jhr.59.1.1018-9825r2.
Jørgen Modalsli’s research examines the enduring nature of economic inequalities across generations, leveraging a remarkable 146 years of administrative data. His findings reveal that familial wealth, educational opportunities, and social networks significantly influence economic outcomes, highlighting the persistent structural barriers that hinder upward mobility. This study offers robust empirical evidence supporting the notion that economic disparities are not merely individual challenges but systemic phenomena perpetuated by social and institutional frameworks. Modalsli’s work provides a critical lens through which to analyze narratives like Goodman’s The Last Grownup, where the protagonist’s struggles with economic dependency and aspirations for independence resonate with the study’s findings. Goodman’s portrayal of intergenerational inequality mirrors Modalsli’s observations, illustrating how familial and societal contexts constrain individual agency. The research also aligns with Marxist critiques of capitalism, emphasizing how systemic mechanisms, like class stratification, reinforce inequality and preserve the dominance of elite classes. Modalsli’s analysis enriches the understanding of Goodman’s narrative by grounding the protagonist’s challenges within a broader context of economic determinism and class exploitation. This makes the article an invaluable resource for scholars exploring the intersections of literature, sociology, and economics, particularly those interested in the role of systemic inequality in shaping personal and generational trajectories.
Schrock, Douglas, and Michael Schwalbe. “Men, Masculinity, and Manhood Acts.” Annual Review of Sociology, vol. 35, 2009, pp. 277–95. JSTOR.
“Men, Masculinity, and Manhood Acts” by Douglas Schrock and Michael Schwalbe examines masculinity as a social construct that reinforces gender inequality. It introduces “manhood acts,” behaviors through which men claim privilege and assert dominance, and critiques the concept of “multiple masculinities” for obscuring shared practices that sustain male privilege. The authors emphasize how these acts contribute to patriarchy by differentiating men from women and maintaining hierarchies. Schrock and Schwalbe explore how cultural and institutional settings shape the performance of manhood acts, such as in workplaces, educational systems, and families. They argue that these acts not only assert dominance but also reinforce collective expectations of male superiority across various societal domains. The authors critique the limitations of current frameworks in addressing the systematic nature of patriarchy, proposing that research must go beyond surface-level descriptions to interrogate structural patterns. They also highlight how manhood acts intersect with race, class, and sexuality to produce unique forms of oppression and privilege, complicating efforts to dismantle patriarchal systems. Moreover, Schrock and Schwalbe stress the importance of developing practical strategies to counter these dynamics, such as fostering alternative masculinity practices that prioritize empathy, cooperation, and respect. Finally, they advocate for public policies and educational reforms that challenge traditional notions of manhood while promoting gender equity. This research underscores the pressing need for collective efforts to reshape social structures, redefine cultural norms, and cultivate inclusive forms of masculinity.
Warshak, Richard A. “Social Science and Children’s Best Interests in Relocation Cases: ‘Burgess’ Revisited.” Family Law Quarterly, vol. 34, no. 1, 2000, pp. 83–113.
“Social Science and Children’s Best Interests in Relocation Cases: ‘Burgess’ Revisited” by Richard A. Warshak critiques the role of social science in determining child custody relocation disputes. It challenges presumptions in favor of custodial parents relocating, emphasizing the need for policies that prioritize children’s relationships with both parents. The paper highlights factors affecting the impact of relocation on children, such as parental involvement, proximity, and stability, and critiques selective interpretations of research used in legal arguments. Warshak emphasizes the psychological stress children may experience when a move disrupts their relationship with the noncustodial parent, potentially leading to feelings of abandonment or insecurity. The study also examines the broader societal implications of relocation decisions, including how they reflect shifting attitudes toward parenting roles. Warshak argues for a child-centered approach that takes into account developmental needs and the value of maintaining regular contact with both parents. He suggests that legal systems adopt evidence-based practices to better assess the unique circumstances of each case. Furthermore, the paper explores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between social scientists and legal professionals to develop more nuanced policies. Ultimately, Warshak calls for a balanced framework that carefully weighs the needs of custodial parents while safeguarding children’s rights to maintain stable and meaningful relationships with both parents.
Yodanis, Carrie. “Divorce Culture and Marital Gender Equality: A Cross-National Study.” Gender and Society, vol. 19, no. 5, 2005, pp. 644–59. JSTOR.
In Divorce Culture and Marital Gender Equality: A Cross-National Study, Yodanis (2005) examines the relationship between societal divorce cultures and gender equality in marriage across different countries. The study highlights how cultural norms surrounding divorce influence the dynamics of gender equality within marriages, proposing that countries with more liberal divorce policies tend to foster greater marital gender equality. By analyzing cross-national data, Yodanis argues that the greater acceptance and ease of divorce can lead to shifts in power relations within marriages, ultimately supporting more equitable roles for women. The article emphasizes the importance of legal and cultural contexts in shaping the experiences and expectations of gender within marital relationships. Yodanis also delves into the structural factors contributing to this relationship, including the role of economic independence and social support systems that enable women to leave unsatisfactory marriages. Additionally, the study highlights how liberal divorce laws can challenge deeply ingrained patriarchal traditions by redefining societal norms regarding marital roles and obligations. This shift not only impacts gender relations within individual marriages but also contributes to broader cultural changes that promote equality. By connecting divorce policies with gendered power structures, the research underscores the critical intersection of policy, culture, and personal agency in advancing gender equity.
