African-Americans and Childbirth

Paper Summary:

The paper describes how African-Americans relate to pregnancy, labor, delivery and the neonatal period. Pregnancy is mostly a positive experience for them and the author writes how African American women associate it with greater self-esteem. This paper includes their cultural beliefs concerning pregnancy and studies postpartum depression in the light of their beliefs and values. The author concludes that African- Americans have maintained many of their traditional beliefs and values dear, however, there is a limit to which ancient values can withstand the tide of changing time.

Content:
Abstract
Introduction
Postpartum depression
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"African Americans are a strong and vibrant community in the American societal setup. Their culture derives from their ancestral African origins which have shaped themselves according to the demands of changing time and evolving mankind. However, the essence of many of the rituals, a fundamental part of their traditions, has withstood the inquisitions of the logical mind. "Pregnancy is seen as an important milestone of life. African American women view it as a "significant demarcation in the women's lives." Motherhood is seen as a mostly positive experience while some African American women also identify the downside of becoming a mother. In the research entitled "Mothers and Others", the authors monitored the mothering habits of women and their reaction to pregnancy and childbirth (Gichia, 2000). It was found that most African American women were very close to families and at this time of their lives, they want their family members and relatives around. Women from this ethnic group are also known for understanding the significance of 'kin-work' at this time (Burton & Stack, 1992). Kin-work refers to distribution of work amongst family members and relatives when an African American woman is expecting a baby or is a new mother. This is almost a tradition in most urban African American households. Pregnancy is considered a clear step forward in life and African American women associate it with greater self-esteem (Mercer, 1995), a change in identity and daily routine (Preski & Walker, 1997)"

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