| |
| author |
Rose Jean-Baptiste
| | title |
Let Your Voice Be Heard, Black Birthing Bodies as Embodied Characters: The Body Endures, The Body Keeps Score, The Body Speaks and The Body Heals - A Qualitative Inquiry Photo Narrative of the Root of Black Birthing Bodies
| | abstract |
In the United States, Black birthing bodies are more likely to experience adverse effects in pregnancy than any other group. One of the identified contributing factors is chronic stress from people's lived experiences of continuous racial stressors. The issue of birthing morbidity and mortality transcends across the country. New Jersey is not different from other states. Black birthing morbidity and mortality are one of New Jersey's weaknesses in health performance. Black birthing individuals are more at risk of experiencing pregnancy-related complications and/or death. A qualitative research approach was utilized for this project as an inquiry to give voice to Black birthing individuals through their stories, gaining insight into their lived experiences through their lens, exploring their narratives, and meaning-making. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five birthing individuals, 18 years and older, who resided in New Jersey and self-identified as Black African American or of African or Caribbean descent. Because of insight into the historical impact of racial stress on black women's bodies, the study was inductive and iterative. Seven key themes emerge from the participants telling their stories: 1) inequity begins before the womb, 2) clinical neglect, 3) mistreatment in care, 4) disrespect, 5) not being seen, 6) being voiceless, and 7) Not being told what to expect 8) make space for just and equitable care. The findings will help expand the mind, heart, spirit, and body connection and approach the Black body holistically with care, not purely from a traditional Westernized lens.
| | school |
The Caspersen School of Graduate Studies, Drew University
| | degree |
D.M.H. (2025)
|
| advisor |
Gaetana A Kopchinsky
|
| committee |
Sloane Drayson-Knigge
|
| full text | RJean Baptiste.pdf - requires Drew uLogin |
| |
