Maternal cognitive themes during pregnancy.

Abstract

This preliminary study explored possible cognitive themes endorsed by pregnant women. A goal was to ascertain whether a concept proposed by Reva Rubin known as "Cognitive Style of Pregnancy" had beginning empirical support. A sample of 50 women with normal pregnancies responded to a 56-item questionnaire known as the Cognitive Adaptation to Pregnancy Scale, specifically developed to assess three constructs based upon a conceptual model known as "Cognitive Adaptation." Items on this scale were obtained in a pilot study from open-ended interviews. Items endorsed suggest a process involving a search for meaning, sense of mastery, and self-enhancement as conceptualized in the model. Items suggestive of a search-for-meaning process supported Rubin's early descriptions of inconclusive questioning and a sense of uncertainty during the experience of being pregnant.