Campus: Tulsa
Email: December.R.Maxwell-1@ou.edu
Education:
PhD in Social Work, University of Texas - Arlington
MSW, University of Arkansas
BA in Psychology, Southern New Hampshire University
Informal Means of Healing Postnatal PTSD Through Tattoo, partners now include Dr. Regina Praetorius (professor) from University of Texas at Arlington and Toni Gallegos, MSW (PhD Student), from University of Texas at Arlington
The study addresses gaps in birth literature by evaluating a unique position of tattoo as an alternative means of healing in the wake of postnatal PTSD by better understanding the experiences of those who sought tattoo after traumatic births. Using both quantitative scales assessing birth environments and maternal mental health, as well as in-depth qualitative interviews, the study includes both postpartum mothers and tattoo artists to assess a broad perspective of birth trauma and the role of tattoo in postnatal PTSD. Preliminary findings indicate there are several salient themes including tattoo acts as solidifier to maternal role identity, tattoo is cathartic in the wake of P-PTSD, tattoo can act as a reminder for breaking traumatic cycles in motherhood, and tattoos act as a symbol or empowerment and survival after experiencing P-PTSD.
