Shame and artificial abortion

master's thesis

• Title (english): Sram i namjerni pobačaj
• Author: Alisa Fejzić
• Mentor: Josip Juras (mentor)
• Committee member: Josip Juras (predsjednik povjerenstva)
• Committee member: Maja Banović (član povjerenstva)
• Committee member: Dinka Pavičić Baldani (član povjerenstva)
• Granter: University of Zagreb; School of Medicine; (Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics); Zagreb
• Defense date and country: 2024-07-12, Croatia
• Scientific / art field, discipline and subdiscipline: BIOMEDICINE AND HEALTHCARE; Clinical Medical Sciences; Gynecology and Obstetrics

Abstract

This research endeavors to provide a thorough examination of the often underestimated but profoundly influential role of shame in the process of abortion decision-making. Despite its prevalence and the frequency of abortion procedures, conversations surrounding this topic remain clouded by stigma and societal taboos, which can significantly impact individuals' experiences and mental well-being. Through a meticulous analysis of existing literature and empirical data, this study aims to bridge the existing gap in understanding regarding abortion, elucidating the factors that influence individuals' decisions and the intricate emotional landscapes they navigate. Central to our investigation is the recognition of shame as a critical element in shaping attitudes towards abortion, both on individual and societal levels. By illuminating the complexities of this phenomenon we advocate for the importance of destigmatization efforts, the provision of comprehensive mental health support, and the cultivation of supportive environments that foster open and empathetic dialogue about abortion. Ultimately, our research underscores the imperative of prioritizing the voices and experiences of those directly affected, with the aim of fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society where individuals can make informed reproductive choices free from the burden of shame and judgment.

Abstract (croatian)

Ovo istraživanje nastoji pružiti temeljitu analizu često podcijenjene, ali iznimno utjecajne uloge srama u procesu donošenja odluka o pobačaju. Unatoč njegovoj učestalosti i čestim postupcima pobačaja, razgovori o ovoj temi ostaju zasjenjeni stigmom i društvenim tabuima, što može značajno utjecati na iskustva pojedinaca i njihovo mentalno blagostanje. Kroz temeljitu analizu postojeće literature i empirijskih podataka, ovaj rad ima za cilj premostiti postojeću prazninu u razumijevanju pobačaja, razjašnjavajući složene čimbenike koji utječu na odluke pojedinaca i kompleksne emocije kroz koje prolaze. Središnji dio našeg istraživanja je prepoznavanje srama kao ključnog elementa u oblikovanju stavova prema pobačaju, kako na individualnoj tako i na društvenoj razini. Osvjetljivanjem složenosti ovog fenomena zagovaramo važnost destigmatizacije, te pružanje sveobuhvatne podrške mentalnom zdravlju i razvijanje okruženja koje potiče otvoren i empatičn dijalog o pobačaju. U konačnici, naše istraživanje ističe nužnost iznošenja stavova i iskustava onih koji su izravno pogođeni, s ciljem poticanja suosjećajnijeg i inkluzivnijeg društva u kojem pojedinci mogu donositi odluke o svom reproduktivnom zdravlju, bez tereta srama i osude.

• Keywords: Abortion; Shame; Stigma; Mental Health
• Keywords (croatian): Pobačaj; sram; stigma; mentalno zdravlje
• Language: english
• URN:NBN: urn:nbn:hr:105:364247
• Study programme: Title: Medicine (in English language); Study programme type: university; Study level: integrated undergraduate and graduate; Academic / professional title: doktor/doktorica medicine (doktor/doktorica medicine)
• Type of resource: Text
• File origin: Born digital
• Access conditions: Open access
• Created on: 2024-10-17 12:04:11