Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Exploring Attachment And The Transition To Motherhood For Survivors Of Childhood Sexual Abuse, Laura E. Bellhouse

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

This study explored the experiences of 8 new mothers who were survivors of childhood sexual abuse. The women completed interviews during their second trimester of pregnancy and 4-6 months following the birth of their child. Specifically, the study focused on attachment during the transition to motherhood. The women’s experiences were examined using a qualitative research design. Two major themes relating to attachment emerged from the data: Trauma and the Impact on Self in Relationships and Moving Forward into Motherhood. Implications for counselling and research are discussed.