Introduction to sociology -- Application of sociology to midwifery -- Psychology and midwifery practice -- Anthropology and midwifery -- Conformity and conflict in maternity services -- Spirituality and midwifery care -- Consent, choice and childbirth -- Politics and birth -- Social policy for midwives -- The woman with a disability -- Sexuality and midwifery.
Summary:
Introducing the Social Sciences for Midwifery Practice makes clear the links between social, anthropological and psychological concepts, midwifery practice and women's experience of birth. Demonstrating how empathizing with women and understanding the context in which they live can affect childbirth outcomes and experiences, this evidence-based text emphasises the importance of compassionate and humane care in midwifery practice. Exploring midwifery as an art, as well as a science, the authors collected here make the case for midwives as professionals working with women; rather than as birth technicians, taking a purely competency-based approach to practice. The book incorporates a range of pedagogical features to enhance student learning, including overall chapter aims and learning outcomes, 'recommendations for practice', 'learning triggers' to encourage the reader to delve deeper and reflect on practice, 'application to practice' case studies which ensure that the theory is related to contemporary practice, and a glossary of terms. The chapters cover perspectives on birth from sociology, psychology, anthropology, law, social policy and politics. Other chapters address important issues such as disability, politics and sexuality. Outlining relevant theory from the social sciences and clearly applying it to practice, this text is an essential read for all student midwives, registered midwives and doulas.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.