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Maternal Knowing and Social Networks: Understanding First-Time Mothers' Search for Information and Support Through Online and Offline Social Networks.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	Maternal Knowing and Social Networks: Understanding First-Time Mothers' Search for Information and Support Through Online and Offline Social Networks.
Authors:	Price, Sheri Lynn¹ pricesl@dal.ca, Aston, Megan¹, Monaghan, Joelle¹, Sim, Meaghan¹, Murphy, Gail Tomblin¹, Etowa, Josephine², Pickles, Michelle³, Hunter, Andrea⁴, Little, Victoria¹
Source:	Qualitative Health Research. Aug2018, Vol. 28 Issue 10, p1552-1563. 12p.
Subject Terms:	Discourse analysis, Focus groups, Help-seeking behavior, Research methodology, Social networks, Information-seeking behavior, Feminist criticism, Internet, Interviewing, Psychology of mothers, Puerperium, Research funding, Social support
Geographic Terms:	Nova Scotia
Abstract:	The postpartum period is an exciting yet stressful time for first-time mothers, and although the experience may vary, all mothers need support during this crucial period. In Canada, there has been a shift for universal postpartum services to be offered predominantly online. However, due to a paucity of literature, it is difficult to determine the degree to which mothers' needs are being effectively addressed. The aim of this study was to examine and understand how first-time mothers accessed support and information (online and offline) during the first 6 months of their postpartum period. Using feminist poststructuralism methodology, data were collected from focus groups and e-interviews, and analyzed using discourse analysis. Findings indicate that peer support is greatly valued, and mothers often use social media to make in-person social connections. Findings highlight how accessing support and information is socially and institutionally constructed and provide direction for health professionals to provide accessible postpartum care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database:	Education Research Complete

Description
Abstract:	The postpartum period is an exciting yet stressful time for first-time mothers, and although the experience may vary, all mothers need support during this crucial period. In Canada, there has been a shift for universal postpartum services to be offered predominantly online. However, due to a paucity of literature, it is difficult to determine the degree to which mothers' needs are being effectively addressed. The aim of this study was to examine and understand how first-time mothers accessed support and information (online and offline) during the first 6 months of their postpartum period. Using feminist poststructuralism methodology, data were collected from focus groups and e-interviews, and analyzed using discourse analysis. Findings indicate that peer support is greatly valued, and mothers often use social media to make in-person social connections. Findings highlight how accessing support and information is socially and institutionally constructed and provide direction for health professionals to provide accessible postpartum care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	10497323
DOI:	10.1177/1049732317748314