Overview of the TED Talk and Key Contributions to Lifespan Development
The presented TED Talk was given by Saraswathi Vedam, an expert in nursery and midwifery. In the presentation, she explained that birth and childbearing are fragile periods in a mother’s life. There is evidence that points to the fact that mothers are uncomfortable giving birth in unnatural settings. However, there is also evidence that shows that birth in medical facilities is safer, but not for the reasons one might expect.
In developed countries, both home births and facility births are relatively safe. Women in less developed countries suffer significantly from the lack of proper equipment, medication, and staff capable of resolving arising issues. Therefore, for healthy lifespan development, women must have options that are both safe and comfortable.
Key Insights and Memorable Takeaways
The most interesting point of the talk for me was the speaker’s clear understanding of the correlation between a woman’s comfort and her health. It is most likely that I will remember for a long time that dismissing a person’s comfort for the sake of their health is not always the most efficient course of action.
Use of Data and Evidence to Support the Argument
The speaker used evidence gathered from cross-sectioned research on women who gave birth at home and at the hospital (TEDx Talks 8:15). The area of psychology that she works in is health equity, which fits the humanistic psychological perspective since it considers the needs necessary for a person to be happy (Dr. Saraswathi Vedampara. 1). Health can be considered one of the essential properties of a happy life.
Remaining Questions
If I could talk to Saraswathi Vedam, I would ask her about her experience in midwifery in less developed countries and the ways the situation there could be improved.
Summary
In conclusion, the argument regarding birth in a hospital or at home depends primarily on the woman’s comfort and, therefore, health. Saraswathi Vedam appears highly knowledgeable about what is most comfortable for women. She states that, oftentimes, the outcome of the birth depends not on the place of birth but on the mother’s socio-economic position.
Works Cited
“Dr. Saraswathi Vedam.” Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity.
TEDx Talks. “Home or Hospital? Holding the Space for Human Birth: Saraswathi Vedam at TEDxAmherstCollege”. YouTube, uploaded by TEDx Talks, 2013.