| Abstract |
Many infants are weaned prematurely within the first two weeks of life, due to ineffective management of breastfeeding problems which are unrelated to any physiological deficit in lactogenesis. Objective assessment tools, in conjunction with theory based interventions, are needed to evaluate the breastfeeding process. The primary purpose of this study was to determine if a model-based intervention was effective in decreasing breastfeeding attrition. A research-based intervention, grounded in the theory of planned behavior, was used to determine if a postpartum visit, a home visit 2 to 4 days after discharge, followed by a phone call at 10 to 14 days had a positive effect on decreasing breastfeeding attrition. The study design consisted of a two-group quasi-experimental design, measuring variables of breastfeeding attrition, maternal attitudes about breastfeeding, maternal social norms influencing breastfeeding, and maternal perceived behavioral control regarding breastfeeding. Breastfeeding procedures and protocols were developed based on the theory of planned behavior's three components: attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. The breastfeeding procedures and protocols were used to guide the researcher's interactions with the intervention group. |
