Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 6, 2026

19:15
Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
88.5K
Mother recognition in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Monika Wernet1, José Ricardo de Carvalho Mesquita Ayres2, Claudia Silveira Viera3
1Departamento de Enfermagem, Escola de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brasil.
Revista Brasileira De Enfermagem
|July 30, 2015
Summary
Mothers in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) experienced recognition failures, leading to insecurity and low self-esteem. Healthcare interactions and protocols negatively impact maternal autonomy and recognition.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) care
- Maternal mental health
- Social recognition theory
Background:
- Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) present unique challenges for mothers.
- Understanding the maternal experience is crucial for improving care.
- The concept of recognition is vital for maternal well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the maternal experience within a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
- To focus on the role of recognition in the maternal experience in the NICU.
- To explore how healthcare interactions affect maternal recognition and autonomy.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing Gadamer's hermeneutics and Honneth's concept of recognition.
- In-depth interviews conducted with 10 mothers of infants in a NICU.
- Analysis of maternal experiences regarding recognition and autonomy.
Main Results:
- Mothers reported failures in the recognition process within the NICU.
- These failures led to feelings of insecurity and obligation in child care.
- Fragility of self-esteem was a significant outcome for mothers.
Conclusions:
- NICU interactions, standards, and protocols contribute to maternal vulnerabilities.
- Maternal recognition and autonomy are negatively affected by the NICU environment.
- Healthcare professionals' practices impact the mother's sense of self and agency.

