| Popis: |
The intention is to contribute to the growing movement concerned with providing ‘appropriate’ birthing places and procedures for Aboriginal women. This thesis maintains that Aboriginal cultural beliefs (in general and those specific to child birth) carry architectural implications and requirements that must be considered in the design of Aboriginal Birthing Centres. The proposition above was investigated by an examination of; (1) cultural traditions; (2) traditional birthing; (3) cultural change and continuity; (4) contemporary spatial patterns; and (5) the first Aboriginal Birthing Centre, Congress Alukura. This thesis was based on literature research, conducted 1992- 93 and a two week visit to Alice Springs in December 1992. Unfortunately the author was unable to see the Birthing Centre in operation as it was not opened until early 1993. The following conclusions were made; (1) European hospitals and obstetric practices do not meet all the birthing needs of Aboriginal women; (2) in communities today, the birthing needs of Aboriginal women range from traditional obstetric practices to a combination of traditional and European obstetrics; (3) the range of beliefs and practices have design implications; and (4) a post occupancy evaluation of Congress Alukura is required. |
