Психологически измерения на ритуалите и обичаите, свързани с раждането на дете
Psychological Dimensions of Rituals and Customs Associated With Childbirth

Summary/Abstract: The customs and rituals associated with the birth of a child represent a complex network of psychological processes and experiences. Understanding them is important both for providing appropriate support for newborns and their families and for gaining a deeper understanding of the role of tradition and culture in shaping our mental health and well-being. The paper aims to analyse how traditional Bulgarian rituals and customs related to childbirth affect the emotional state of the participants and to reveal their role in reducing anxiety and stress. The practices are divided into two main subgroups: rituals in the period of pregnancy and those up to the 40th day after birth. The first group covers practices related to recommendations, prohibitions, and predictions of the sex of the baby, and the second covers childbirth, the first bath, breastfeeding, cakes, baptism, and magical protection rites. The importance of cultural practices for mental health and well-being is highlighted, and guidance is provided for professionals working with newborns and their families. A parallel with contemporary practices is also drawn, outlining directions for future research to deepen understanding of the role of culture in supporting families around birth.

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