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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