Login / Signup

Maternal self-efficacy development from pregnancy to 3 months after birth.

Gizem SamdanTilman ReineltNatalie KielBirgit MathesSabina Pauen
Published in: Infant mental health journal (2022)
The present study uses a prospective longitudinal study design to investigate the development of maternal self-efficacy in the transition phase to parenthood, drawing on a large sample of socially and/or culturally disadvantaged families (N = 292). Parity, maternal education, migration, informal and formal social support are considered as potential predictors. Results indicate that previous birth experience, being born abroad, and higher levels of formal and informal social support during pregnancy jointly predict higher levels of maternal self-efficacy three months after birth. First-time mothers and mothers born in Germany (where the study was conducted) benefit more from formal support than mothers with previous experience and mothers born outside of Germany. Overall, maternal self-efficacy increases significantly. Implications for prenatal maternal care are discussed.
Keyphrases
  • birth weight
  • gestational age
  • social support
  • pregnancy outcomes
  • preterm birth
  • depressive symptoms
  • pregnant women
  • healthcare
  • low birth weight
  • quality improvement
  • weight gain
  • risk assessment
  • body mass index