Browsing by Author "Cullingham, Carol Marie"

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    New Mothers' Networks in the Canadian Context: A Combined Methods Investigation into the Characteristics, Function, and Dynamics of First Time Mothers' Social Networks
    (2013-02-12) Cullingham, Carol Marie; Godley, Jenny; Scott, Cathie
    In this combined methods study, semi-structured qualitative interview data and quantitative social network survey data were used to describe the characteristics, functions, and dynamics of new mothers’ social networks in the Canadian context. The social networks of the mothers who participated were largely composed of a core network of close family and friends who provided a range of social support. First time mothers’ networks also included network members who provided support specific to the context of new motherhood, such as daytime companionship during the regular work week, which they found through existing ties when possible. When not, new mothers often sought this companionship through acquaintances or new friends, particularly other new mothers. Comparison of structured social network data with semi-structured interview data led to recommendations for better eliciting and describing these context specific ties in new mothers’ networks, including the use of a multi-pronged, context aware approach.