What characterizes the "taking hold" phase of postpartum adjustment?

What characterizes the "taking hold" phase of postpartum adjustment?

• A. Complete detachment from the infant
• B. Dependency-independence balance
• C. High emotional neediness
• D. Focus exclusively on household chores

Answer: (B)

The "taking hold" phase of postpartum adjustment is characterized by a woman's growing independence as she begins to take an active role in caring for her newborn and embracing her new identity as a mother. This phase typically follows the "taking in" phase, where new mothers are often more focused on their own needs and recovery. During "taking hold," mothers start to express more interest in their infant's care and their own responsibilities, indicating an important balance between dependency on support systems and developing their own capabilities. This phase allows new mothers to feel more confident and capable of handling their new roles, which often leads to increased interaction with the baby, seeking guidance from healthcare providers, and asking questions related to infant care. This blend of dependence on assistance while simultaneously striving for independence is a critical aspect of the adjustment process during this stage. The other options do not align with the characteristics of the "taking hold" phase. Complete detachment from the infant would be contrary to the increased engagement and connection expected during this phase. High emotional neediness is more representative of earlier stages of adjustment, while an exclusive focus on household chores does not capture the essence and relational aspects of this transitional period. Thus, the dependency-independence balance is the defining feature of the "taking

The "taking hold" phase of postpartum adjustment is characterized by a woman's growing independence as she begins to take an active role in caring for her newborn and embracing her new identity as a mother. This phase typically follows the "taking in" phase, where new mothers are often more focused on their own needs and recovery. During "taking hold," mothers start to express more interest in their infant's care and their own responsibilities, indicating an important balance between dependency on support systems and developing their own capabilities.

This phase allows new mothers to feel more confident and capable of handling their new roles, which often leads to increased interaction with the baby, seeking guidance from healthcare providers, and asking questions related to infant care. This blend of dependence on assistance while simultaneously striving for independence is a critical aspect of the adjustment process during this stage.

The other options do not align with the characteristics of the "taking hold" phase. Complete detachment from the infant would be contrary to the increased engagement and connection expected during this phase. High emotional neediness is more representative of earlier stages of adjustment, while an exclusive focus on household chores does not capture the essence and relational aspects of this transitional period. Thus, the dependency-independence balance is the defining feature of the "taking