A question of words.
By tracing powerful patriarchal words originally applied to mass production, military manoeuvres, building construction and war, and then ascribing them to birth we can see how Western culture denounces the mother's true role as the central and essential figure in the birth of her own children. Many words for birth imply fear, doubt and opposition. Yet when we consciously select words to describe giving birth as a form of art--a giving of creation--we can not only place the woman at the centre of the birth event, but also grant the respect and honour due her as she brings forth new life.
Mains
Heather
H
hmains@rogers.com
D001294:Attitude to Health; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005239:Fear / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007743:Labor, Obstetric / Q000523:psychology*; D008880:Midwifery / Q000592:standards*; D009035:Mothers / Q000523:psychology*; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D011247:Pregnancy; D037841:Pregnant People / Q000523:psychology*; D014481:United States; D016387:Women's Health