Degree

BS (Social Sciences & Liberal Arts)

Faculty / School

School of Economics and Social Sciences (SESS)

Department

Department of Social Sciences & Liberal Arts

Date of Award

Spring 2024

Date of Submission

2024-08-04

Advisor

Dr. Saima Bint-e-Saif, Assistant Professor SSLA, Department of Social Sciences

Committee

Irum Iqbal Hussain, Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences

Project Type

SSLA Culminating Experience

Access Type

Restricted Access

Abstract

This study aimed to explore mothers' lived experiences with infant feeding in Pakistan, focusing on the complex emotions of guilt and shame within familial, hospital, workplace and public interactions. Using in-depth semi-structured interviews with a sample of six infant feeding mothers, the research employed Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and deductive analysis to identify key themes and subthemes. The findings revealed that societal expectations and personal beliefs significantly influence mothers' feelings of guilt and shame. Themes such as feeding choices, social perceptions, healthcare interactions, familial interactions, workplace dynamics, religious beliefs, and mothering identity were prominent. Many mothers equated breastfeeding with good motherhood, leading to feelings of inadequacy and guilt when unable to meet this expectation. Social interactions, particularly with healthcare providers and family members, played a crucial role, with supportive interactions alleviating and critical interactions exacerbating feelings of guilt and shame. The study also highlighted how feeding practices were closely tied to mothers' identities, with successful breastfeeding associated with a positive maternal identity and difficulties leading to negative self-evaluations. These findings emphasize the need for supportive policies, empathetic healthcare practices, and broader cultural understanding to alleviate the negative emotions of guilt and shame and promote positive maternal and infant health outcomes.

Pages

96

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