Approaching Breastfeeding Behavior Predictors Through Theory of Planned Behavior: Instrumentation and Validation of
Kritee Niroula1, Erin M McKinley
1Author Affiliations: Institute of Collaboration on Health, Intervention and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (Dr Niroula); and Louisiana State University and the LSU AgCenter, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Baton Rouge, Los Angeles (Dr McKinley).
Background:
Breastfeeding provides the necessary nutrition and immune support for infants' growth, development, and defense mechanisms. The Theory of Planned Behavior is a commonly used framework to study factors influencing breastfeeding intentions.
Objective:
This study aimed to create an instrument for assessing key breastfeeding factors that influence breastfeeding intentions through a systematic tool development and validation approach.
Methods:
A set of items was developed based on the Theory of Planned Behavior constructs. A group of 6 experts in scale content was gathered to evaluate the items in 2 rounds until a consensus was reached. The scales were then tested and validated with a sample of 558 adult women of reproductive age without children in Louisiana. Structural equation modeling was used to determine the model fit.
Results:
An exploratory factor analysis revealed a fixed-factor model, which was later confirmed through confirmatory factor analysis. The factors identified were perceived behavioral control, breastfeeding attitudes, breastfeeding support, breastfeeding norms, and breastfeeding intentions.
Conclusions:
The model demonstrated an acceptable fit, with factors showing high internal reliability and content validity. The study highlighted the importance of addressing demographic differences to enhance breastfeeding practices among nulliparous women. The model could offer insights for developing targeted interventions to change breastfeeding behavior positively.
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