Abstract:

Motherhood involves a range of decisions deeply influenced by cultural and societal norms. Among these decisions, infant feeding practices are often subject to intense moral scrutiny, impacting women's choices and societal perceptions. However, despite extensive research on the health benefits of breastfeeding, the underlying drivers and implications of moralisation remain underexplored. A fieldwork initiative in rural southern Poland will be conducted using surveys and vignettes to examine the cultural beliefs, social norms, and individual experiences shaping moralistic behaviour related to maternal choices, including infant feeding, and their social transmission. Preliminary data from a pilot study, which will be conducted by June 2024, will be presented, showing the distribution of feeding practices and their perception at the family and peer levels. The exploration of the moralisation of maternal choices will enrich the field by offering valuable insights into social attitudes and cultural dynamics surrounding motherhood. This research advances understanding of how cultural contexts influence moral judgments and infant feeding behaviours. Moreover, understanding the moral complexities of infant feeding can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive approach to maternal health, grounded in cultural sensitivity and respect for individual choices.

Speaker's social media:

Twitter: @joanna_zyrek