A correlational study examining the relationships among maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy, problem-solving skills, satisfaction with breastfeeding experience, and duration

• Main Author: White, Marilyn L.
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Memorial University of Newfoundland 2002
• Subjects: Newfoundland
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/1392/; https://research.library.mun.ca/1392/1/White_MarilynL.pdf; https://research.library.mun.ca/1392/3/White_MarilynL.pdf

The breastfeeding initiation rate in Newfoundland and Labrador is well below national standards, and is further compromised by high attrition rates, despite evidence confirming the superiority of breast milk for infant health. It is becoming more apparent from the literature that breastfeeding confidence and problem-solving are factors affecting breastfeeding success. These factors were investigated in this study in relation to the outcome variables of breastfeeding satisfaction and duration. The study was guided by a conceptual framework based on Self-Efficacy Theory (Bandura, 1977) and the concept of Learned Resourcefulness (Rosenbaum, 1983). -- A descriptive correlational design was used with a sample of 57 breastfeeding mothers to address the questions of differences in breastfeeding confidence over time, differences between experienced and first time breastfeeders in relation to breastfeeding confidence, problem-solving, satisfaction, and duration, as well as the relationships among these variables. Data were collected using the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (BSES), the Problem-Solving Related to the Baby's Feeding Scale (PS-F), the Maternal Breastfeeding Evaluation Scale (MBFES), a Demographic Profile, and through telephone interviews at three time frames. Data were analysed using SPSS 9.0 for Windows. -- The findings of this study indicated that the duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding were far below established breastfeeding standards. The major reason cited for discontinuing breastfeeding was perceived insufficient milk supply. All mothers scored relatively high on measures of breastfeeding confidence, problem-solving and satisfaction. No significant differences were found between confidence scores overtime. First time mothers scored lower than experienced mothers in breastfeeding confidence, problem-solving, satisfaction, and duration rates, although only confidence and satisfaction scores were significantly different. Numerous positive relationships existed among the study variables, often ...