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Breastfeeders versus bottlefeeders: differences in femininity perceptions
J E Barnes1, J C Leggett, T W Durham
1School of Nursing, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC.
Maternal-Child Nursing Journal
|January 1, 1993
Summary
This study found no significant differences in perceived femininity between women who chose breastfeeding versus bottle-feeding. However, women with unclear identities were more likely to choose bottle-feeding.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Maternal Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Parenting choices, such as breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, can be influenced by various psychosocial factors.
- Understanding these influences is crucial for providing targeted maternal support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate perceived differences in femininity between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding mothers.
- To explore the relationship between maternal identity and infant feeding choices.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-eight primiparous women participated in the study.
- Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and a sex role inventory.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in perceived femininity were found between the breastfeeding and bottle-feeding groups.
- Women reporting a less defined sense of identity were more inclined towards bottle-feeding.
Conclusions:
- Maternal identity, rather than perceived femininity, may play a significant role in infant feeding method selection.
- Further research is warranted to explore the complex interplay of identity and feeding choices in new mothers.