Emotional adjustment and concerns of Korean mothers of premature infants

Abstract

This study describes the emotional adjustment and concerns of 50 Korean mothers of premature infants from hospitalization through six weeks after discharge. Five themes emerged: self-blame, concern about the infant, reluctance to express negatives, fear of stigmatizing responses to the infant by others, and delayed joy in mothering. Three Korean cultural beliefs influenced mothers’ responses to premature birth: maternal responsibility for infant outcomes, negative thoughts can lead to negative consequences, and stigmatization of prematurity. Results identify specific ways caregivers in Korea and other countries can provide culturally appropriate support for Korean mothers experiencing a premature birth.