The effect of professional socialisation on midwives’ practice

SummaryThis article discusses the influence that professional socialisation can have on midwifery practice. Differences in beliefs and practices regarding the oral intake of labouring women were the basis for this paper's discussion. Midwives should be aware of the problems that may be caused by the socialisation processes experienced during the training and subsequent working life of a midwife which aim to procure obedience and unquestioning conformity. These attributes diminish the ability of midwives to challenge traditional practices and to make decisions based on the available research evidence and the preferences of women in their care. Basing practice on tradition or practice conventions rather than a formal guideline or an evidence-based policy may expose a midwife to potential litigation should there be an adverse event.