Human Milk and Breastfeeding Myths Scale: Development, Validity, and Reliability Study.
Sinem Güven Dinmez1, Zehra Gölbaşı2, Kafiye Eroğlu3
1Mudanya University, Bursa, Türkiye.
Summary
This study developed and validated the Human Milk and Breastfeeding Myths Scale. The 24-item scale effectively measures societal beliefs about human milk and breastfeeding, aiding in identifying and addressing myths.
Area of Science:
- Health Sciences
- Sociology
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Societal misconceptions about human milk and breastfeeding pose a significant barrier to successful lactation.
- Addressing these false beliefs is crucial for promoting and supporting breastfeeding practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate the "Human Milk and Breastfeeding Myths Scale" (HMBMS).
- To create a reliable instrument for assessing public beliefs regarding human milk and breastfeeding.
Main Methods:
- A methodological study involving 326 participants (pregnant and breastfeeding individuals) in Istanbul, Turkey.
- Scale development included expert evaluation, exploratory factor analysis, and content validity assessment (Lawshe technique).
- Reliability was tested using internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = .86) and test-retest assessment (n=34).
Main Results:
- The initial 32-item scale was refined to a 24-item instrument after removing items with low factor loadings.
- Exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure, with a dominant first factor.
- The final scale demonstrated good internal consistency and supported content validity.
Conclusions:
- The Human Milk and Breastfeeding Myths Scale is a valid and reliable tool.
- This scale can be utilized to assess societal beliefs and myths surrounding human milk and breastfeeding.
- Findings support the use of the HMBMS in research and clinical settings to identify and counteract breastfeeding misinformation.
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