Introduction
The journey of motherhood is complex and multifaceted, often influenced by societal narratives and scientific findings. Recent research titled “Mombrain and Sticky DNA”: The Impacts of Neurobiological and Epigenetic Framings of Motherhood on Women's Subjectivities, explores how neuroscientific and epigenetic narratives shape women's experiences during the perinatal period. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing the outcomes of this research or encouraging further exploration.
Key Findings from the Research
The study conducted focus groups with pregnant women and new mothers in North America to understand how they engage with translations of neuroscientific and epigenetic research. Three main themes emerged:
- A Kind of Brain: The concept of "mombrain" or "pregnancy brain" is prevalent in popular culture. While some women find it validating, others see it as stigmatizing. The brain-based explanation can legitimize subjective experiences but also perpetuate stereotypes of female limitation.
- The Looping Effects of Biomedical Narratives: Engagement with epigenetic research can increase self-monitoring and anxiety about mental states, potentially leading to distress. This reflects the looping effects where scientific narratives shape self-construal and wellbeing.
- Imprints of Past Experience and the Management of the Future: The idea of epigenetic inheritance of trauma can be distressing, but some women find empowerment in the concept of plasticity and the ability to positively influence outcomes.
Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners working with mothers should be aware of the powerful influence of neuroscientific and epigenetic narratives. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Provide Balanced Information: Help mothers understand the nuances of scientific findings and avoid deterministic interpretations that may increase anxiety.
- Promote Agency and Empowerment: Emphasize the potential for positive change and the importance of self-care without overburdening mothers with responsibility.
- Encourage Critical Engagement: Support mothers in critically engaging with scientific narratives and recognizing their own experiences and strengths.
Encouraging Further Research
The study highlights the need for further research into how scientific narratives impact women's experiences and self-construal during the perinatal period. Practitioners can play a role in advocating for and participating in research that seeks to understand and improve outcomes for mothers and their children.
Conclusion
Understanding the impacts of neuroscientific and epigenetic narratives on motherhood is crucial for creating supportive environments for mothers. By critically engaging with these narratives and promoting empowerment, practitioners can help mothers navigate the complexities of the perinatal period.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: “Mombrain and Sticky DNA”: The Impacts of Neurobiological and Epigenetic Framings of Motherhood on Women's Subjectivities.
