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Access Type
WSU Access
Date of Award
January 2024
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Francesca Pernice
Abstract
This study aimed to explore Black women's narrative during the perinatal period using a culturally relevant conversation strategy called Sista Circles. Sista circles were used to gain knowledge from the perspective of Black mothers about their experiences with medical professionals during the perinatal period. The research questions focused on (1) how Black women navigate medical spaces during pregnancy and postpartum and (2) the impact a clinician-led group has on the mental health and perinatal experiences of Black mothers. The Sista Circle groups were conducted virtually, with two separate groups running simultaneously, with six members in each group. Participants were between 21 weeks pregnant and 12 weeks postpartum. Each session yielded a different topic to help participants engage in meaningful dialogue. The weekly groups were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for emergent themes. The Sista Circle groups yielded two overarching themes when considering how Black mothers navigate their medical experiences during the perinatal period: (1) Illuminating the Power of Black Providers and (2) Unpacking Strong Black Woman Schema (during Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period). Within the latter theme, four sub-themes emerged: (1) Displaying of Strength, (2) Black Mothers' Concerted Help Seeking Behaviors, (3) Suppression of Emotions, and (4) Desire for Knowledge. When exploring the impact of a clinician-led group on Black mothers, findings revealed that participants inherently felt comfortable in the group space and the importance of support groups for Black women, not only during the perinatal period but in all facets of life. The study highlights the impact of gendered racism in the medical field on Black women. This project emphasizes how Black women have identified nontraditional coping mechanisms to maintain their safety and the safety of their babies while dealing with the high Black maternal mortality rate in America.
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Lakenya, "“i’ll Do It Myself” Exploring The Medical Experiences Of Black Women During The Perinatal Period Using Sister Circles: A Case Study" (2024). Wayne State University Dissertations. 4076.
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/oa_dissertations/4076