An exploration of the experiences of Black British Caribbean bereaved fathers following baby loss: an interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Williams, Cherise Savannah ORCID: 0000-0003-0720-7234 (2024). An exploration of the experiences of Black British Caribbean bereaved fathers following baby loss: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

The first chapter involves a meta-ethnography, including 11 papers synthesising religio-cultural perspectives of perinatal loss across several cultures. A comprehensive search was implemented across Scopus, Web of Science, Proquest and PsychINFO, followed by a hand search to collate relevant literature. Through a rigorous screening method, quality assessment and adherence to the inclusion and exclusion criterion, three themes were formed: (1) The discourse and manifestation of religio-cultural scripts, (2) parental responses to loss and (3) the role of a Higher being in the sense-making of loss. The results showed that there are gendered differences in the experience of baby loss among some communities due to the local cultural scripts and customs. Those who understood their loss through the lens of their religion and/or relationship with God found a more effortless adjustment to the loss, a sense of understanding and a transcendent comfort.

The second chapter details an interpretative phenomenological analysis of Black British Caribbean fathers lived experiences of baby loss. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with five participants, producing four themes: 1) Silenced by the positioning by others, 2) God knows, 3) The shifted experience and appreciation of fatherhood, and 4) Navigating support whilst invisible. The findings demonstrate how the intersectionality of race, gender, culture, and religion complicate bereaved fathers’ experiences following baby loss. This experience was intensified by multi-directional forms of positioning from others. Changes in their romantic relationships, relationships with their living children and the understanding of their spiritual and religious beliefs further compounded this experience.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):