This series delves into current theory and research concerning women and psychology. It draws upon scholarship from various psychological fields, bridging the gap between abstract research and the lived experiences of women. By integrating theory with practice and research with policy, it offers a comprehensive perspective on the psychological dimensions of women's lives. The collection explores complex issues relevant to understanding women's psychological well-being and societal roles.
Exploring the concept of caring, the book delves into how this essential capacity is developed rather than being an inherent trait. It examines the significance of caring in human relationships and society, questioning its origins and the factors that influence our ability to empathize and support others. Through insightful analysis, it highlights the importance of nurturing this capacity for the well-being of individuals and communities.
Sheila Jeffreys offers a critical examination of Western beauty standards and the underlying industries and ideologies in this updated edition. The book explores the impact of beauty practices on women's lives, challenging societal norms and highlighting the misogynistic elements inherent in beauty culture. Through her analysis, Jeffreys encourages readers to rethink their perceptions of beauty and its implications for gender equality.
Many women find mothering a shocking experience in terms of the extremity of feelings it provokes, and the profound changes it seems to prompt in identity, relationship and sense of self. This book discusses the possibility for a specific feminine-maternal subjectivity, relationality and reciprocity, ethics and otherness.
Exploring the societal constructs surrounding abortion, Mary Boyle examines its implications beyond mere health concerns. By integrating perspectives from sociology, politics, anthropology, law, and psychology, she reveals the intricate connections between abortion, sexual behavior, and motherhood. This analysis highlights the complex interplay of gender and power relations, offering a deeper understanding of how abortion is perceived in Western society.
Psychology, Science and the Transition to Motherhood
Challenging the notion of the 'happy mother,' this book offers a feminist psychological analysis of post-natal depression, reframing it as a natural response to the losses experienced after childbirth. Paula Nicolson critiques conventional medical and social science narratives, arguing that the feelings associated with post-natal depression are not pathological but rather a normal part of women's experiences during this transformative period.