A concept analysis of parent-infant attachment

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Family Health
• Developmental Psychology

Background:

• Concept analysis is foundational for nursing theory, research, and practice.
• Parent-infant attachment is a significant concept for nurses caring for childbearing families.
• Existing measurements of parent-infant attachment may require refinement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the concept of parent-infant attachment.
• To identify antecedents, critical attributes, and consequences of parent-infant attachment.
• To highlight the need for improved measurement of parent-infant attachment.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Wilson's method for concept analysis.
• Systematically generated antecedents, critical attributes, and consequences.
• Focused on the concept of parent-infant attachment.

Main Results:

• Defined key components of parent-infant attachment.
• Established a clearer understanding of the concept's boundaries.
• Identified areas for enhancing the measurement of parent-infant attachment.

Conclusions:

• Clarification of parent-infant attachment is essential for nursing knowledge development.
• The study underscores the importance of rigorous concept analysis in nursing.
• Refined measurement of parent-infant attachment will strengthen nursing research and practice.