Social support, knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy as predictors on breastfeeding practice

Abstract

Current WHO/ UNICEF recommendations for optimal infant feeding are exclusive breastfeeding for approximately the first 6 months postpartum, after which complementary food should be introduced gradually, with the continuation of breastfeeding until 2 years or beyond. In the past decade, there has been a myriad of research into the factors affecting breastfeeding duration to identify risk factors for failure. It is important to investigate many predictors of premature breastfeeding discontinuation which are modifiable demographic variables such as social support, knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy. An empowerment program can improve a mother’s control over her environment by encouraging active participation on the basis of her requests regarding the content and implementation of the program, by making the program mother-oriented, and by helping the mother to determine the solutions suitable for her. Key words: social support, knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy, breasrfeeding