From maternal melodies to prenatal attachment: A qualitative study on expressive songwriting

Uyanik A., Demirdil G.

Infant Mental Health Journal, vol.47, no.1, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 47 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1002/imhj.70054
  • Journal Name: Infant Mental Health Journal
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Child Development & Adolescent Studies, Educational research abstracts (ERA), EMBASE, MEDLINE, Psycinfo
  • Keywords: art, attachment, expressive, pregnancy, singing, songwriting
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the experiences of expectant mothers in writing songs to strengthen their emotional bonds during pregnancy. Five pregnant women living in Turkey participated in the study. They were asked to write songs thinking about their babies. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in the final session. Studies show that songwriting helps pregnant mothers get to know themselves and their babies better, reduces stress and anxiety, and strengthens prenatal bonding. The songwriting process is recognized as a valuable tool that allows women to make sense of and share their emotional experiences during pregnancy.