| Edition |
First edition. |
| Description |
xvi, 262 pages ; 24 cm |
| Summary |
Millwood, a clinical psychologist, discovered losses in the wake of new motherhood: aspects of identity, baseline level of happiness, and a general sense of well-being. Even with a supportive husband she resented the fact that the disruption to his life seemed to pale in comparison to hers. Now she examines how-- for most new mothers-- these issues add another layer of tension, conflict, and confusion to an already challenging time. -- adapted from jacket |
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"A clinical psychologist's exploration of the modern dilemmas women face in the wake of new motherhood. When Molly Millwood became a mother, she was fully prepared for what she would gain: an adorable baby boy; hard-won mothering skills; and a messy, chaotic, beautiful life. But what she did not expect was what she would lose: aspects of her identity, a baseline level of happiness, a general sense of wellbeing. And though she had the benefit of a supportive husband during this transition, she also at times resented the fact that the disruption to his life seemed to pale in comparison to hers. As a clinical psychologist, Molly knew her experience was a normal response to a life-changing event. But without the advantage of such a perspective, many of the patients she treated in her private practice grappled with self-doubt, guilt, and fear, and suffered the dual pain of not only the struggle to adjust but also the overwhelming shame for struggling at all. In [this book], Molly explores the complex terrain of new motherhood, exploring the ways it affects women psychologically, emotionally, physically, and professionally--as well as how it impacts their partnerships. Along with the arrival of a bundle of joy come thorny issues such as self-worth, control, autonomy, and dependency. And for most new mothers, these issues are experienced within the context of an intimate relationship, adding another layer of tension, conflict, and confusion to an already challenging time. As Molly examines the inextricable link between women's well-being as new mothers and the well-being of their relationships, she offers guidance to help readers reclaim their identities, overcome their guilt and shame, and repair their relationships. A blend of personal narrative, scientific research, and stories from Molly's clinical practice, To Have and to Hold provides a much-needed lifeline to new mothers everywhere."--Dust jacket. |
| Bibliography |
Includes bibliographical references (pages 245-254) and index. |
| Contents |
Women transformed -- Out of the shame hole -- The full catastrophe -- Mom, interrupted -- It takes a village to raise a mother -- The great divide -- Couples adrift -- In the weeds -- Live-in Buddhas -- Lost and found. |
| Subject |
New mothers.
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Motherhood.
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Motherhood -- Psychological aspects.
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Marriage.
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FAMILY & RELATIONSHIPS / Parenting / Motherhood.
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New mothers. (OCoLC)fst01894759
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Marriage. (OCoLC)fst01010443
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Motherhood. (OCoLC)fst01026907
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Motherhood -- Psychological aspects.
(OCoLC)fst01026918
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| ISBN |
0062838652 (hardcover) |
|
9780062838650 (hardcover) |
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