Hi All
For those interested, please email me if you would like a copy of either or both 
of the following (pdf):

(1) "MOTHERING DENIED - HOW OUR CULTURE HARMS WOMEN, INFANTS AND 
SOCIETY" 

FROM THE AUTHOR (RETIRED AUSTRALIAN CHILD PSYCHIATRIST):
"I decided to self-publish it and make it freely available at no cost, via the 
net, and anyone may pass it on to anyone else, as they wish.
I do not intend to publish a normal soft-back edition, but if anyone wishes to 
do so, I shall be glad if they contact me. Likewise, if there are any errors, I 
would be glad to know of them (but this does not claim to be a 
conventionally “balanced” presentation).
NB: As most people have little time to read most of what is published, this 
book has a Synopsis of 1170 words at the beginning, and a longer Summary of 
3250 words near the end. In between is a fully referenced Main Text of 41.750 
words. These are followed by ten Notes and a detailed list of references. So it 
is not a long book, it’s language is as simple as the topic at the time will allow, 
and its evidence and conclusions are meant to be easily available to readers in 
however much time they choose to give it. So far as I know this book is 
unique, and I hope timely.
The book has been edited to American style, but this attached pdf is designed 
to become an A4-size book of 115 pages using both sides of 58 sheets of A4 
paper.
A version for printing on US letter-size paper will become available early next 
year.
It is fitting that, as we enter 2009, it presents: firstly, what follows from a 
biological, evolutionary perspective on mothering, and then much other 
converging evidence from different directions; secondly, it discusses under 
what conditions departures from the natural, best-fit, pattern of human 
mothering has adverse health and developmental consequences; and thirdly, 
what we could do about it.
Sincerely, Peter S. Cook"

Abstract:
Although the word ‘mothering’ has become politically incorrect, five 
complementary lines of evidence now converge to show that there is a 
natural, biologically-based, best-fit pattern of human mothering, and it 
includes breastfeeding, carrying, secure attachment, mutual rewards, 
enjoyment, and empathy—meaning a mother’s sensitivity to her baby’s feelings 
and responding accordingly. Mutual playfulness and joy help to sustain healthy 
development if the environment is supportive and meets basic human needs. 
These five independent lines of evidence are described in five chapters in Part 
one. (This is a form of triangulation.)

Part two outlines how and when disturbed development can arise if departures 
from natural patterns of mothering create environments that fail to match the 
biologically-based needs of babies and very young children. Such ‘eco-genetic 
mismatch’ can disrupt important biological mechanisms that are based in the 
human genome. It can be especially harmful when it occurs during pregnancy, 
childbirth, and early childhood. It can stem from actions that derive from 
teachings and practices that neglect human needs, and from ignorance and 
ideologies that are misconceived.

Part three outlines some remedial directions towards more healthy families and 
societies. To improve physical, emotional and mental health it is urgent to 
distinguish the needs of children nearer school age from those of infants—
defined as ‘without speech.’ Their primary need is for nurturing early 
mothering, within supportive and sociable environments.

We should aim to bring our society—that we can change—into better harmony 
with our biological ‘givens’ that we cannot change and would therefore do well 
to accept. This involves supporting healthy mothering, breastfeeding, and 
attachment, with generous maternity leave. Natural patterns of mothering 
work best with the support of a father and an extended family and/or social 
group, within a suitable environment. There are models we could follow that 
offer many benefits—even for ‘the economy’. It is necessary to work with 
Nature and not against her to promote health and wellbeing in young children, 
their mothers, and society. Prevention is better than cure, and a normal 
mother-child relationship is a love affair that needs the right conditions to 
flourish. Infancy cannot be re-run later.

(2) For those who may have missed Michel Odent's essay re oxytocin: "From 
Homo Super-predator to Homo Ecologicus" (my edited version - with 
permission) - approx 60kb

Wishing you all a peaceful & happy Christmas.
Warm Regards
Julieanne, IBCLC, Australia

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