Examine cross-cultural issues related to child-rearing, particularly with infants. We will look at the issue of sleeping arrangements. Read the following articles.
Evolutionary Perspectives on Mother-Infant Sleep Proximity and Breastfeeding in a Laboratory Setting, by Lee T. Gettler and James J. McKenna. American Journal of Physical Anthropology 144: 454-462. 2011.
Sleeping with Baby: An Internet-Based Sampling of Parental Experiences, Choices, Perceptions and Interpretations in a Western Industrialized Context, by James J. McKenna and L. Volpe. Infant and Child Development 16:359-385. 2007.
There is also more information on cosleeping at the University of Notre Dame Mother-Baby Behavioral Sleep Laboratory.
Next, find someone who grew up in a culture different from your own. Remember that culture can be defined in many ways. You can also find an interviewee from the class. Interview them about infant sleeping arrangements and practices.
Summarize what you found as well as what culture you are describing. Be sure to use ONLY a first name or a pseudonym (i.e. not their real name) and to tell us which two cultures you are comparing.
(https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/11/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.)
What conclusions about these topics did you draw after the reading and interviews?
Sample Solution