LACTNET Archives

Lactation Information and Discussion

LACTNET@COMMUNITY.LSOFT.COM

Options: Use Forum View

Use Monospaced Font
Show Text Part by Default
Show All Mail Headers

Message: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]
Topic: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]
Author: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]

Print Reply
Subject:
From:
Joanne McCrory <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Thu, 25 Feb 1999 22:35:46 -0600
Content-Type:
text/plain
Parts/Attachments:
text/plain (44 lines)
”But they also need to figure out how they are going to impart that
information to the women they are trying to help and use it to help these
women make very important decisions in their lives at a time when they are
very
vulnerable and unsure of themselves."

When trying to reach new mothers, I have found Daniel Stern's Motherhood
Constellation to be of great help.

Stern suggests that new mothers go through a special aspect of life that is
different from a phase, complex or life cycle issue. He calls it a
constellation.

He points out four essential aspects to the issues and adjustments in this
time of life.  If we can remember that this is what a new mom is going
through, then we are better equipped to support her/reach her.

1-The life growth theme - can I maintain the life and growth of this baby.
Will he gain weight, be healthy, can I keep him safe etc.

2-Can I emotionally engage this baby in ways that assure the baby's
psychological development in healthy ways.  Will he be happy, well adjusted,
be able to form sustaining relationships etc.

3-Will I know how to create and permit the necessary support systems to
fulfill these functions.  Do I have the resources to ensure his development
etc. How can I ever find out everything I need to know etc.

4-Will I be able to transform my self-identity to permit and facilitate
these functions.

Stern also suggests that those who work with women in this part of life
extend warm, nurturing support and advice without the professional distance
that a professional relationship usually inhibits.  To over simplify, to
model nurturence.

This is what LCs and LLLL and others on Lacnet do all the time.  It seems, I
hope, to be becoming the new recommended model for interactions with new
moms.

Joanne McCrory, AAHCC instructor
Back in school for MA in Child Development
"Prevention and Early Intervention"

ATOM RSS1 RSS2