Title
Doulas’ Perspectives about Providing Support to Incarcerated Women: A Feasibility Study
Date
2014
Author(s)
Rebecca J. Shlafer, Wendy L. Hellerstedt, Molly Secor-Turner, Erica Gerrity, and Rae Baker
Brief Type
Journal publication
Model(s)
- Other Models
Description
Objective: To document the logistical feasibility of a doula program for pregnant incarcerated women and to assess doulas’ perceptions of their achievements. Design and Sample: Six doulas provided written case notes (birth stories) about their experiences with 18 pregnant women in one Midwestern state prison. Measures: The birth stories were analyzed by two coders to identify major themes related to doulas’ perceptions about providing support to incarcerated women. Analyses involved coder consensus about major themes and doula affirmation of findings. Results: All doulas reported that they met key objectives for a successful relationship with each of their clients. Key themes were their ability to empower clients, establish a trusting relationship, normalize the delivery, and support women as they were separated from their newborns. Conclusions: The intervention was logistically feasible, suggesting that doulas can adapt their practice for incarcerated women. Doulas may need specific training to prepare themselves for institutional restrictions that may conflict with the traditional roles of doula care. It may be important for doulas to understand the level of personal and professional resources they may have to expend to support incarcerated women if they are separated from their infants soon after delivery. (author abstract)
Data Collection Methods
- Record and document reviews
Status
Finished
For More Information
Shlafer, R. J., Hellerstedt, W. L., Secor‐Turner, M., Gerrity, E., & Baker, R. (2015). Doulas’ perspectives about providing support to incarcerated women: A feasibility study. Public Health Nursing, 32(4), 316-326. doi: 10.1111/phn.12137
Author Contact Information:
Rebecca J. Shlafer
shlaf002@umn.edu
Topics
- Home Visiting Workforce Characteristics and Workforce Development
- Participant Characteristics
- Participant, Family, and Program Outcomes