Ramona T. Mercer: Maternal Role Attainment

Introduction

Ramona T. Mercer is the theorist credited for developing the theory of Maternal Role Attainment, which is also known as the theory of Becoming a Mother. “Maternal role attainment is an interactional and developmental process occurring over time in which a mother becomes attached to her infant, acquires competence in the caretaking tasks involved in the role, and expresses pleasure and gratification in the role (Tomey & Alligood, 2006, p. 608). Mercer’s career has been primarily focused in pediatrics, obstetrics, and maternal-child nursing. Mercer’s greatest accolades have been based on her extensive research on the topic of maternal role and development (Tomey & Alligood, 2006, p. 605).

The writer chose to research Mercer’s Theory of Maternal Role Attainment because she is of child-bearing age and will begin a family with her husband within the next five years. The writer believes that the “nurture” process and how a person is socialized within their environment, especially their family, may determine largely how well developed (physically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally) a person will become. By having a greater understanding of Mercer’s Maternal Role Attainment Theory, the writer may have an increased capacity to create healthy relationships with the individuals in her family, especially with her children.

Origins of the Theory

Mercer received her diploma from St. Margaret’s School of Nursing in Montgomery, Alabama in 1950. She worked in pediatrics, obstetrics, and contagious disease as a staff nurse, head nurse, and instructor for nearly 12 years. In 1962, she received her bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico. Mercer earned her master’s degree in maternal-child nursing in 1964 ...

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