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Updated: Jul 13, 2026

A Common Marmoset Model of Mother-Infant Intervention for Breastfeeding Disorders in the Presence of Paternal Inhibition and Maternal Neglect
Published on: September 22, 2023
Exploring breast-feeding self-efficacy
Dawn Kingston1, Cindy-Lee Dennis, Wendy Sword
1School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. kingstda@mcmaster.ca
Purpose:
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.
Conclusion:
This study provides preliminary evidence that specific efficacy-enhancing strategies may significantly influence breast-feeding self-efficacy. Further research is warranted.
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Sources of Self-Esteem I: Family Experience
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Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
