Many moons ago (turn of last century-ish maybe), mothers were often encouraged NOT to bond too closely with a newborn at first because neo-natal and infant mortality reates were so much higher.
As regards newer practices verses older, personally I believe the years you spend with them following the birth affect the parent/child bond way more than whether a baby went to a nursery or roomed in with Mum at the hospital.
People have always and will always do it in all sorts of ways, and I'm sure that if it's all done with love and respect, in the best interests of the family, all will be fine.
Not long after my first one was born, I was freaking out over something I was feeling inadequate (mother-wise) about, and someone very smart told me "You don't always have to be a good mother - just good enough!" It's a straw this drowning mother has often grabbed at....
Cheers,
Marina.
