Troubling connection between workplace pregnancy discrimination and health of mothers, babies

Researcher shares practical steps for managers to combat discrimination

July 7, 2020

Perceived pregnancy discrimination indirectly relates to increased levels of postpartum depressive symptoms for mothers and lower birth weights, lower gestational ages and increased numbers of doctor visits for babies, according to a management study led by Baylor University.

The study — “Examining the Effects of Perceived Pregnancy Discrimination on Mother and Baby Health” — is published in the Journal of Applied Psychology.

“Despite being illegal, pregnancy discrimination still takes place in the workplace,” said lead author Kaylee Hackney, Ph.D., assistant professor of management in Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business. “Obviously, this is troublesome. Our research highlights the negative impact that perceived pregnancy discrimination can have on both the mother’s and the baby’s health.”

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