Open AccessSelf-efficacy, infant feeding practices, and infant weight gain: An integrative review
Author(s) -
Jessica Bahorski,
Gwendolyn Childs,
Lori A. Loan,
Andrés Azuero,
David Allison,
Paula ChandlerLaney,
Eric A. Hodges,
Marti Rice
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
journal of child health care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.601
H-Index - 38
eISSN - 1741-2889
pISSN - 1367-4935
DOI - 10.1177/1367493518788466
Subject(s) - breastfeeding , infant feeding , self efficacy , weight gain , medicine , infant formula , association (psychology) , developmental psychology , breast feeding , psychology , pediatrics , body weight , social psychology , psychotherapist
It has been suggested that self-efficacy specific to parenting or feeding may influence the decisions parents make regarding infant feeding; however, a review of this topic has not been conducted. The purpose of this integrative review is to synthesize the literature regarding the potential role of self-efficacy in infant feeding practices or infant weight gain. A total of 40 articles were used to guide this review, which were classified into three categories examining an association with self-efficacy (1) breastfeeding; (2) infant feeding practices such as parental feeding style and dietary quality; and (3) infant weight gain. Evidence regarding breastfeeding self-efficacy (BFSE) and breastfeeding is extensive; mothers with a higher sense of BFSE more often initiate breastfeeding and breastfeed for longer durations. The evidence regarding self-efficacy and the association with infant feeding practices other than breastfeeding is sparse. However, several studies report that mothers who have a higher sense of self-efficacy are more likely to follow infant feeding practices which align with recommendations. The authors have speculated an association between self-efficacy and infant weight gain; yet, to date, no study has found a significant association. More research is needed on the topic, particularly in diverse populations and with fathers and mothers.