In: Psychology
Please list the African American views and beliefs surrounding pregnancy and childbirth based on
a. religious beliefs
b. superstitious beliefs (if any)
c. practices or customs regarding how the pregnant mother, father, and family behave concerning prenatal care.
d. family practices regarding nurturing and protection of the fetus during pregnancy
e. family practices regarding nurturing and protection of the baby when it's born
Answer- (a) Religious beliefs- It is generally seen that religious beliefs play an important role in the recovery of patients. Pregnant women also show their faith and follow religious beliefs. Religiosity and health are very closely related to each other in African- American context. During pregnancy and childbirth, women and their families pray to God for protection, safe delivery and blessings. The women practices all beliefs and options to avoid caesarian at the time of childbirth. Women believe that the religious practices would result into a safe delivery.
(b) Superstitious beliefs- African- American have many superstitious views and myths about pregnancy. They believe that if the pregnant women experience lot of heartburn, the baby will be born with loads of hair. Another myth is that pregnant women should not accept gifts as someone may offer them a curse. Many others myths are also there which are definitely not true.
(c) Practices or customs regarding how the pregnant mother, father, and family behave concerning prenatal care - Child birth is a biological and cultural phenomenon. The women and family members are very concerned about the child's safety and they show extra care about it. Pre-natal care starts before pregnancy. If someone is planning a pregnancy, a complete healthcare checkup is required.
father of the baby and other family members take care of the pregnant woman. The mother have regular health checkups, their diets are nutritious and all members of the family try to keep her happy and stressfree. All these things are very important for the mental and physical health of the baby.
(d) Family practices regarding nurturing and protection of the fetus during pregnancy- Pregnancy is a complicated process in which a mother requires good health for herself and her baby. Parenting includes attachment, commitment and nurturing toward the child. The society and family members provide support and help the mother. African- American women are comforted and secured by their spouse, their parents and siblings.
(e) Family practices regarding nurturing and protection of the baby when it's born- A baby needs protection and nurturing to survive. A new born baby need good sleep, hygeine and basic medical care. African-American women and caregivers spend a lot of time with the baby. These activities include bath times, feeding, diapering and bedtime. Breastfeeding is considered very important for the babies and African-American women and their families are very serious about it.