Johnson, Rachel, D.Clin.Psy. (2011) Psychological wellbeing in the perinatal period. DClinPsych thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

Chapter one systematically reviews the literature on the psychological impact of breastfeeding on mothers. Whilst breastfeeding is indicated as the superior feeding choice for infants, the full impact on mothers is under-reported. Results show that breastfeeding and weaning have a varied psychological impact on maternal wellbeing, identity and perceptions of role. Where incompatibilities between mothers‟ expectations and lived experiences occur, or where disagreement between self and others is perceived, dissonance, distress and division result. Discussion is made of the implications of these findings for clinical service provision, training and research. Chapter two presents a grounded theory analysis of fathers‟ experiences of attending traumatic childbirth. Despite an increasing trend over recent decades for fathers to attend their children‟s births, relatively little is still known about the potential impact of having been present during a traumatic labour or delivery upon them. In response to this gap in the literature, the current study reports theoretical concepts generated from interviews with fathers. A model of the experiences recounted is also presented, showing that, within the context of their past experiences, antenatal preparation and confidence in the care provided, fathers cycled between seeking control, passive observing, and helplessness. Findings are discussed in relation to the existing literature and the implications of this novel contribution to the subject area for future research and service provision are highlighted. Chapter three discusses the candidate‟s personal observations and reflections on the research process. The impact of parenthood and gender upon research into the perinatal period is considered and effects are noted on the researcher, participants and the research itself. Reflections are discussed with reference to previous research into gender and motherhood in qualitative research, and a call is made for researchers to acknowledge their epistemological positions within their subject fields as a matter of routine.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (DClinPsych)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Breastfeeding -- Psychological aspects, Childbirth -- Psychological aspects, Fathers
Date:	May 2011
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Department of Psychology
Thesis Type:	DClinPsych
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Liebling-Kalifani, Helen ; McKenzie-McHarg, Kirstie ; Bowen, Erica
Description:	Completed in conjunction with Coventry University. School of Health and Social Sciences.
Extent:	xi, 140 leaves
Language:	eng
URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/49310

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