Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
05:04
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
Developing maternal self-efficacy for feeding preterm babies in the neonatal unit.
Vivien Swanson1, Helen Nicol, Rhona McInnes
1Department of Psychology, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom. vivien.swanson@stir.ac.uk
Qualitative Health Research
|July 26, 2012
Summary
Developing maternal self-efficacy in infant feeding can improve well-being for mothers of preterm babies. Support in neonatal units helps mothers build confidence and overcome challenges associated with premature birth.
Area of Science:
- Maternal Psychology
- Neonatal Care
- Perinatal Health
Background:
- Premature birth can lead to negative psychological outcomes for mothers.
- Maternal self-efficacy is crucial for well-being and adapting to the challenges of preterm birth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore primiparous mothers' experiences in a neonatal unit (NNU).
- To understand the development of maternal self-efficacy in infant feeding behaviors following preterm birth.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing semistructured interviews.
- 19 primiparous mothers of preterm infants in a Scottish neonatal unit participated.
Main Results:
- Mothers reported feelings of loss, disruption, and a search for normality.
- Providing breast milk enhanced maternal confidence and embodied connection.
- Maternal self-efficacy developed through motivation, knowledge, perseverance, and positive feedback from infants and healthcare professionals.
Conclusions:
- Maternal self-efficacy development is key to offsetting psychological distress after premature birth.
- Interventions in the NNU should focus on fostering maternal confidence and control in infant interactions.
- Linking self-efficacy sources with behavior change techniques can enhance maternal confidence in the NNU.
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