An Exploration of the Perinatal Experience of Body Image in Postpartum African-American Mothers
An Exploration of the Perinatal Experience of Body Image in Postpartum African-American Mothers
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Issue Date
2017
Authors
Harris, Apryl S.
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Abstract
This study examines how racial experiences intersect with body image in relation to psychological distress in postpartum African American mothers. It presents critical insights into how the emotional and psychological effects associated with body image changes and concerns during the postpartum period are critical to a woman's overall well-being. It also examines how the postpartum period can lay the groundwork for positive or negative alterations in women's body image, self-esteem, and identity. Finally, it investigates the experience of body image in postpartum Black women, as well as experiences in the Black community, specifically, how body image concepts for Black women are very complex and influenced by multiple paradigms. A literature survey provided direction for exploratory research questions that guided the development of the interview protocol. A qualitative approach was selected for this study's research method through eight semi-structured interviews. The most salient and unique experiences centered on participants' feelings about their pregnancy, experiences rarely discussed in current postpartum literature. Specifically, body image dissatisfaction from noticeable skin changes, disappointment from medical complications, reconnecting with Black pride and empowerment, and racial discrimination. Future research implications include medical professionals and perinatal treatment, expanding the research to different regions within the US, religious vs. non-religious coping, and postpartum body image experiences in other women of color. Implications for the treatment of pregnant and postpartum women by doctors and therapists are discussed.
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Keywords
“Body Image","Postpartum","Perinatal","Qualitative Research","African-American Mothers","African-American Women"