The Tomatis Method and the Genesis of Listening
Gilmor, Timothy M.
Vol. 4 (1), 1989, 9-28
This article presents the Alfred Tomatis method of auditory stimulation which assists in the development of listening, language and communication skills pre- and post-natally. The model stresses the wide range of functions of the ear, including its role as an organ of hearing, listening, balance, coordination and body image; its function as a vector for the lateralization process and subsequent receptive and expressive language integration; and as the fundamental sensory channel through which the communication process begins.
One Who Listens Speaks: An Interview with Dr. Alfred Tomatis
Michaud, Marie-Andree
Vol. 4 (1), 1989, 27-32
Alfred Tomatis is interviewed about his early life; generation of his method; listening, language and consciousness; the mother's voice; adults and listening; the electronic ear; and faith.
Metaphors: The Language of Pre- and Perinatal Trauma
Landsman, Sandra G.
Vol. 4 (1), 1989, 33-42
Verbal metaphors and their behavioral counterparts are discussed within the context of pre- and peri-natal issues in psychotherapy. The author argues that major developmental stages are illustrated by the patient's use of language, with key metaphors emerging frequently in casual conversation or during periods of stress. Thus the baby's reaction to physical and psychological experiences during gestation may be discerned form verbal cues offering new possibilities in the realm of diagnosis and psychotherapeutic treatment.
The Psychological Aspects of In-Vitro Fertilization
Hurwitz, Nancy
Vol. 4 (1), 1989, 43-50
Infertility is a life crisis that affects all aspects of a couple's life. When they enter an in-vitro fertilization program, the trauma and emotional stress become intensified. The first section of this paper reviews the psychological components of infertility. The second focuses on the psychological issues that apply specifically to in-vitro patients. The last portion provides suggestions for primary care physicians who are directly involved with IVF programs.
Prenatal, Neonatal & Early Childhood Intervention in Six Hundred Families: A Study in Progress
de Manrique, Beatriz Guzman
Vol. 4 (2), 1989, 73-82
This paper describes the first large-scale social application of pre- and peri-natal psychology to a disadvantaged population in South America. The article lays out in a very preliminary way the criteria for the study and the methodology. Primary characteristics centered on the use of a prenatal stimulation program. See follow-up article in Vol. 12 (3-4).
Natalism as Pre- & Perinatal Metaphor
Irving, Michael C.
Vol. 4 (2), 1989, 83-110
This paper presents a theory of natalism, which proposes that the symbolic expression of birth and prenatal consciousness can be found in art, mythology, and creative expression. It provides many examples to illustrate the point that birth and prenatal experience, which may not be readily accessed or discussed verbally, may be more aptly expressed in the non-verbal articulation of art, dance, music, etc. The author argues that natalistic images have often been vividly depicted without conscious recognition on the part of the creator of the work. Looking at the meanings behind natalistic symbols found in art can provide a valuable resources for developing our understanding of pre- and peri-natal issues in history, in particular cultures, and in the individual personalities of the creators of the works.
The Music Therapy-Assisted Childbirth Program: A Study Evaluation
Gonzales, Carlos E.
Vol. 4 (2), 1989, 111-124
A program designed to reduce stress for the working mother-to-be in preparation for labor and to promote a more positive interaction between the mother and child postnatally using music therapy is presented. One hundred forty persons enrolled. Twenty-one primigravidas were given a two-part questionnaire two weeks and six weeks after birth. The program as an extension of regular prenatal classes appeared to bring about a more positive outcome in terms of preparation for childbirth, labor, and especially the postpartum period. Pain reduction through music strategies during hard labor seems to work best for relatively short, uncomplicated labors.
Neuro-Biochemistry of Immersion in Warm Water during Labor: The Secretion of Endorphins, Cortisol & Prolactin
Boulvain, M., & Wesel, S.
Vol. 4 (2), 1989, 125-136
A warm bath during the first stage of delivery accelerates labor while it also has an analgesic and antispastic effect. This effect seems to be more obvious in "pathological" women. This study explored variations in neurotransmitter plasma levels before, during, and after the bath. The bath seems to lower the increase of endorphin and cortisol plasma levels during labor. An increase of prolactin levels is observed in the bath, and a decrease out of the bath.
The Expanding Boundaries of Memory
Chamberlain, David B.
Vol. 4 (3), 1990, 171-190
This article argues that verifiable birth memories can be obtained from children and adults. It presents evidence for the reliability and validity of such memories, and for memories extending to prenatal life and even to conception. It argues that a materialistic approach to memory may misrepresent the facts of subjective experience, at least to the extent that it depends upon having a functioning neurological system. Examples of veridical memories obtained through hypnotic regression are presented.
The Role of Obstetrical Rituals in the Resolution of Cultural Anomaly, Part I
Davis-Floyd, Robbie E.
Vol. 4 (3), 1990, 193-212
In an anthropological analysis treating US hospital birth practices as cultural rituals, this articles seeks to interpret the messages sent to women through "standard procedures for normal birth." It isolates the core values and central beliefs of contemporary American society through their expression in hospital procedures using technological and mechanization metaphors. This essay argues that the technical model versus one of "nature" and natural processes can further alienate women from their experience and produce negative outcomes. It identifies strategies and techniques that can give pregnant women more control over childbirth.
Pre- and Peri-natal Psychology in a Developing Country
Kovacevic, Melita
Vol. 4 (3), 1990, 213-218
Psychology dates to the early part of the 20th century in Yugoslavia, but development has been slow for a number of reasons. Lag in technological development and lack of financial support have been characteristic. Furthermore, sociocultural and economic differences between the regions have made an even development of pre- and peri-natal psychological issues impossible. There is now conflict between cultural values relative to pregnancy, the life of the fetus and abortion. Medical advances and social change have produced problems faster than they can be solved. The future role of pre- and peri-natal psychology in solving these problems will be significant.
The Relation between Tachystoscopic Pictures and Neurotic Postpartum Depression: The Building of an Instrument
David, Helene, Borgeat, Francois, & Saucier, Jean-Francois
Vol. 4 (3), 1990, 219-228
Research is presented based on perceptual defense theory relating to the possibility of detecting the risk of postpartum depression in pregnant women. The authors present a tachystoscopic method they developed and report on a study using this method on a sample of 43 French Canadian women divided into depressed and non-depressed groups. The method involves testing identification and reaction times to photographic stimuli related to perinatal issues. The study shows a high correlation between postpartum levels of depression and perceptual defense (vigilance) measurements which explain 40% of the variance of depression.
Presidential Address--IV International Congress on Pre- and Peri-Natal Psychology
Verny, Thomas R.
Vol. 4 (3), 1990, 229-240
This state-of-the-field address traces the emergence of pre- and peri-natal psychology as a field of legitimate scientific inquiry in the United States, and the resistance to it from various groups, including feminists, the right wing, and members of the scientific establishment. It argues for the field's potential as an agent for sweeping social change. (Reprinted in Vol. 13 [3-4]).
Presidential Address--IX International Congress on Pre-Natal and Peri-Natal Psychology and Medicine
Fedor-Freybergh, Peter G.
Vol. 4 (3), 1990, 241-248
This state-of-the-field address traces the emergence of pre- and peri-natal psychology as a field of legitimate scientific inquiry in the international arena and traces the emergence of the International Society for Pre- and Peri-natal Psychology through the establishment of various branches, grants, and their acceptance in different venues.
The Evolution of Helplessness in the Human Infant and its Significance for Pre- and Peri-Natal Psychology
Trevathan, Wenda R.
Vol. 4 (4), 1990, 267-280
This article discusses differences between humans and other primates with regard to the necessity for a greater proportion of brain growth after birth. Reasons for delayed development of the brain include the high degree of intimacy between maternal and fetal systems because of the hemochorial placenta; the upper limits to brain growth imposed by the maternal pelvis; and the advantage of having the brain develop in the more challenging environment outside the uterus. The impact of delayed development on the caretaker is reviewed as are the effects of the quality of the neonatal environment on subsequent development of visual, locomotor, linguistic and manipulative skills.
Sociocultural Factors and Perinatal Development of Baganda Infants: The Precocity Issue
Kilbride, Janet E., & Kilbride, Philip L.
Vol. 4 (4), 1990, 281-300
Infant development among the Baganda of Uganda is discussed from a sociocultural perspective. Cross-cultural examples which illustrate cultural effects on infant behavior are presented. In particular, sensorimotor development is examined by means of a social survey, direct observations and formal testing during the Huganda infant's first six or eight months of life of 13 infants. The pattern of advancement found supports the view that parental values and children's behaviors influence the rate of development. The issue of "African infant precocity" is discussed in terms of the importance of sociocultural factors on infant development.
The Cultural Roots of the Canadian Birthing System
James-Chetelat, Lois
Vol. 4 (4), 1990, 301-318
Cross-culturally, birthing practices can be better understood by examining the central belief system of a given culture. Through a discussion of the ideology, symbol and value inherent within the central belief system of the Canadian society, that of science and technology, as well as by examining the historical development of obstetrics, this article argues that it is possible to explain how a system of maternity care which overemphasizes technology and de-emphasizes the woman's role in birthing has gained dominance in this country.
Parental Speech and Language Acquisition: An Anthropological Perspective
Blount, Ben G.
Vol. 4 (4), 1990, 319-338
This article provides a perspective on how anthropology contributes to the study of pre- and peri-natal development owing to its treatment of culture, defined as the meaning systems that members of society attribute to one other in their behavior. In this paper, that concept is applied to child language acquisition since it necessitates a description of the ways that caretakers conceptualize their interactions with prelinguistic and language-acquiring children. The article emphasizes the facilitative roles of parental speech and how meaning systems are made visible rather than overlooked or assumed. Illustrations are provided from English, Spanish, Luo, Samoan, and Quiche Mayan languages and cultures.
