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Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

2004

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Graduate Nursing

First Advisor

Penny Powers

Keywords

postpartum depression, mother psychology

Abstract

Childbirth and the postpartum period are life-altering experiences that can be joyful for many women and their families. Fora small percentage of mothers, however, it is a time of pain and grief beyond imagination. Society and the media portray motherhood as a naturally occurring progression for women- a time of immense happiness and satisfaction during which our nurturing, internal instincts show us the way. Instead, the combination of extreme hormonal shifts, altered routines, and sleep deprivation can set the stage for severe depression and despair. This study uses phenomenology to explore the lived experience of postpartum depression.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Postpartum depression.
Mothers -- Psychology.

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

68

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 2004 Stephanie Orth. All rights reserved

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