Chapter 6, Childbirth and Rearing the Young Summary and Analysis

This chapter focuses upon the arrival of offspring. Haley observes that there are repercussions throughout the family system, meaning people of the families that led up to this union are effected by the turn of events. Haley touches on what has come to be referred to as post-partum depression or maternal psychosis. In the most extreme cases, the mother might be hospitalized. This either forces or allows other relatives, be it the father or extended family, a great chance to take care of the baby unless the family dynamic is one of separation, in which case the father and the mother are the only relatives available to help with the baby. When the mother does receive therapy, the reasons for why she is so upset about becoming a mother are discussed...