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Maternal self-efficacy development from pregnancy to 3 months after birth
Gizem Samdan1,2, Tilman Reinelt3,4,5, Natalie Kiel1
1Human and Health Sciences, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
Maternal self-efficacy increases significantly during the transition to parenthood. Previous birth experience, social support, and birthplace influence these changes, with tailored prenatal care benefiting specific mother groups.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Psychology
- Sociology of the Family
- Public Health
Background:
- The transition to parenthood is a critical developmental period.
- Understanding factors influencing maternal self-efficacy is crucial for perinatal mental health.
- Disadvantaged families face unique challenges during this transition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the development of maternal self-efficacy in socially and/or culturally disadvantaged families.
- To identify predictors of maternal self-efficacy during the transition to parenthood.
- To examine differential effects of social support based on maternal background.
Main Methods:
- Prospective longitudinal study design.
- Large sample (N=292) of disadvantaged families.
- Analysis of predictors including parity, education, migration, and social support.
Main Results:
- Previous birth experience, being born abroad, and higher social support predicted higher maternal self-efficacy post-birth.
- First-time mothers and those born in Germany benefited more from formal support.
- Maternal self-efficacy showed a significant overall increase.
Conclusions:
- Maternal self-efficacy develops positively during the early postpartum period.
- Social support and prior experience are key factors influencing maternal confidence.
- Prenatal care interventions should consider individual maternal characteristics for optimal effectiveness.
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