Exploring breast-feeding self-efficacy.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore the influence of efficacy-enhancing experiences on breast-feeding self-efficacy.


METHODS
Using the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form, the influences of enactive mastery and various forms of experiences (vicarious, verbal persuasory, and physiological) on breast-feeding self-efficacy were assessed at 48 hours and 4 weeks postpartum among a convenience sample of 63 mothers.


RESULTS
Those women who observed breast-feeding role models through videotapes or received praise from their partners or their own mothers had significantly higher levels of breast-feeding self-efficacy than mothers who did not. In addition, mothers who experienced physical pain or received professional assistance with breast-feeding difficulties had significantly lower levels of breast-feeding self-efficacy than those who did not.


CONCLUSIONS
This study provides preliminary evidence that specific efficacy-enhancing strategies may significantly influence breast-feeding self-efficacy. Further research is warranted.
Kingston
Dawn
D
School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. kingstda@mcmaster.ca
Dennis
Cindy-Lee
CL
Sword
Wendy
W
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D009864:Ontario; D011582:Psychological Theory; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires