Maternal and Child Health: A Social Justice Perspective

Course Description

This comprehensive course offers an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted world of maternal and child health. Through a unique social justice lens, students will delve into the complex factors that shape the well-being of women, children, and families. The course takes a holistic approach, examining developmental, demographic, epidemiological, economic, political, behavioral, and social aspects that impact maternal and child health outcomes.

What Students Will Learn

• A comprehensive understanding of the individual, community, organizational, and societal needs and strengths of women, youth, and children.
• The critical importance of reproductive choice, justice, and health in maternal and child health.
• How to apply a developmental life course perspective to promote healthy development in maternal and child health populations.
• The significance of perinatal mental health and its impact on overall well-being.
• Analytical and communication skills to effectively address the unique needs and strengths of maternal and child health populations.
• The crucial role of leadership and advocacy in advancing maternal and child health initiatives.

Prerequisites

This course is designed as an introductory level course and has no specific prerequisites. However, a genuine interest in public health, social justice, and the well-being of women and children would be beneficial.

Course Content

• Social justice perspective in maternal and child health
• Developmental aspects of maternal and child health
• Demographic and epidemiological factors affecting women and children
• Economic and political influences on maternal and child health
• Behavioral and social characteristics unique to maternal and child health
• Reproductive choice, justice, and health
• Life course perspective in healthy development
• Perinatal mental health
• Leadership and advocacy in maternal and child health
• Analysis and communication of population needs and strengths

Who This Course Is For

• Public health students and professionals
• Social workers and community health workers
• Healthcare providers interested in maternal and child health
• Policy makers and advocates in the field of women's and children's health
• Anyone passionate about improving health outcomes for women, children, and families

Real-World Applications

• Designing and implementing community health programs focused on maternal and child health
• Advocating for policy changes to improve health outcomes for women and children
• Developing targeted interventions that address the unique needs of maternal and child health populations
• Conducting research to further understand and address challenges in maternal and child health
• Leading organizations or initiatives focused on improving maternal and child health outcomes
• Providing more informed and culturally sensitive healthcare services to women and children
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to create comprehensive approaches to maternal and child health issues