Item – Theses Canada

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OCLC number
1287010421
Link(s) to full text
LAC copy
Author
Buchner, Katelynn.
Title
Experiences of Indigenous mothers with the child welfare system at the birth of their child.
Degree
Master of Social Work (MSW) -- University of Northern British Columbia, 2020
Publisher
[Prince George, British Columbia] : University of Northern British Columbia, 2020
Description
1 online resource
Abstract
The topic of Indigenous women's experiences with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) at the birth of their child is one that falls through the gaps of current literature. This thesis is focused on identifying the experiences of Indigenous women when MCFD intervenes at the birth of their child; the purpose is to gain insight into the strengths and weaknesses of child welfare interventions. I interviewed five Indigenous women using an interpretive description approach and analyzed the data using constant comparative analysis as well as conventional content analysis techniques. The findings highlighted the impact of child welfare involvement that included: powerful emotions, trust, communication and dismantled families; a structural power imbalance characterized as feeling powerless, being watched and judged, and jumping through hoops; addiction; socioeconomic struggles that included young mothers and homelessness, poverty, and neglect; missed preventative opportunities; the role of advocacy; identity and culture; and bonding. In conclusion, child welfare practice needs to include opportunities for preventative measures and planning to optimize support and communication with Indigenous pregnant women and mothers.
Other link(s)
doi.org
unbc.arcabc.ca
unbc.arcabc.ca
Subject
Childbirth -- British Columbia -- Prince George
Indigenous women -- British Columbia -- Prince George
Child welfare -- British Columbia -- Prince George