Date of Conferral

7-30-2025

Degree

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Matthew Howren

Abstract

Women in the Arab world traditionally observe a 40-day postpartum rest period, during which they rest, follow specific rituals, and learn to care for their newborn under the guidance and care of a family matriarch, typically their mother. Despite the prevalence of this practice, there is limited empirical research exploring the educational role of Arab mothers during their daughters' postpartum period; this qualitative study addressed this gap. Foundational to this study’s theoretical framework was Ramona Mercer’s theory of maternal role attainment. The study addressed two research questions: how Arab women describe their postpartum experiences and the educational role their mothers assume during this period. Twelve Arab women living in Kuwait participated in semistructured interviews to describe their postpartum experiences and their mothers’ educational roles during their recovery. Data were coded and analyzed to identify six central themes: preparing for motherhood, cultural practices and beliefs, level of care and support, learning from mothers, mothers as role models, and personal transitions to motherhood. These themes highlight the interplay between cultural traditions, maternal guidance, generational learning, and personal development. The findings contribute to the limited literature on postpartum experiences of Arab women, emphasizing the importance of maternal guidance in fostering confidence and competence in new mothers. Recommendations include expanding research to include diverse socioeconomic groups and exploring postpartum practices in other cultures with similar traditions. The findings contribute to positive social change by highlighting the need for further development of culturally sensitive postpartum care to support Arab women and their families.

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