Exploration of ecological identity and natural childbirth
by McDaniel, Jequita Potts, Ph.D., UNION INSTITUTE AND UNIVERSITY, 2009, 214 pages; 3375171

Abstract:

This study examines connections between natural childbirth and ecological identity. Natural childbirth is defined as birthing without technological manipulation, utilizing natural instincts of the body in the process of giving birth, and ecological identity as how one relates to the natural world through cognition, motivation, philosophy, and values. This research asks: do some women choose natural childbirth as an expression of ecological identity, what are parallel experiences with natural childbirth and environmentalism, and how can ecological identity be supported in natural childbirth? Discussions are structured around specific interview questions as well as spontaneous input from seven women who share the exploration of natural childbirth and ecological identity, thus referred to as co-researchers. Qualitative methodology is used, with a phenomenological approach utilizing the hermeneutic method and heuristic inquiry. Data gathering techniques include structured interviews, personal reflections, questionnaires, theoretical arguments, review of written materials, and free-flowing dialogues with subjects. Inquiry consists of four primary components—personal reflections, interviews, archival data, and recommendations. Four core themes emerge: (1) co-researchers were confident that natural birth would proceed without complications; (2) an attitude of ecofeminism can be associated with natural birth; (3) an element of postpartum depression can be present in the absence of natural birth; (4) access to the natural world is important during birth. Co-researchers conclude that strong ecological identity can sometimes be a factor in choosing natural childbirth, and that disruption in the natural birth process through technological intervention might be taken as disregard for the woman's ecological identity.

 
AdviserM. Willson Williams
SchoolUNION INSTITUTE AND UNIVERSITY
SourceDAI/B 70-09, p. , Dec 2009
Source TypeDissertation
SubjectsObstetrics and gynecology; Women's studies; Developmental psychology
Publication Number3375171
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