Embodied trauma: The influence of childhood sexual abuse on the transition to motherhood

Mason, Robin

Saturday, March 31, 2012: 2:10 PM-3:30 PM

Nob Hill D (San Francisco Marriott Marquis)

Speaker:
Robin Mason, PhD, Women's College Hospital and the University of Toronto

Authors:
Helene Berman, RN, PhD, University of Western Ontario
Catherine Classen, PhD, Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto
Marilyn Evans, PhD, University of Western Ontario
Gloria Mulcahy, PhD, Kings University College
Susan Rodgers, PhD, University of Western Ontario
Lori Ross, PhD, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto
Jodi Hall, PhD, University of Western Ontario
Fatmeh Alzoubi, PhD candidate, University of Western Ontario
Leonarda Carranza, PhD candidate, University of Toronto

Presentation Format:
Scientific Program Report

Learning Objectives:

Explore the ways in which childhood sexual abuse affects women during the transition to motherhood
Recognize diverse strategies survivors of childhood sexual abuse employ during their own journey into motherhood
Recognize that pregnancy may serve as a catalyst for change while acknowledging that this change may not endure

Description:
Women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse (CSA) often suffer lifelong negative sequelae. In this study, we examined how CSA affects the transition to motherhood. Eighteen women were interviewed during pregnancy and after childbirth. Despite challenges, the women developed strategies to become ‘good’ mothers and create a better, if idealized family, for their children. Strategies included “making meaning”, “labouring to forgive/to forget”, and adopting “healthier” behaviours. In this presentation, the findings will be discussed and policy and practice recommendations presented.