Unintended Consequences of "Breast Is Best" Messaging on Mothers: An Autoethnography
Jennifer Hemeon1, Deborah Norris2, Sarah Stahlke3
1Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
Abstract:
Purpose: To describe the breastfeeding experiences of a dietitian and mother so as to expose dominant discourses reinforcing expert-driven imperatives to breastfeed.Methods: Professional experiences and personal challenges related to breastfeeding promotion are described, analyzed, and interpreted using autoethnography. The social ecological model (SEM) is used as a sensitizing concept to guide the organization, presentation, and analysis of experiences.Results: Data were organized into two discussion themes: breastfeeding promotion practices and "failure" to breastfeed. Dominant discourses reinforcing expert-driven imperatives to breastfeed are revealed, including health as a duty, intensive motherhood, and mother blame. Discourses promoting or reinforcing breastfeeding simultaneously judge and denormalize formula-feeding.Conclusions: Contemporary breastfeeding promotion messages and strategies are quiet coercions used to influence infant-feeding decisions and do not support the principles of evidence-based practice, person-centred care, and informed choice.
Related Concept Videos
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Stereotype Threat and Self-fulfilling Prophecies
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative...
Parental Care
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
Framing Effects


