Perceptions of young people to breastfeeding

Abstract

This study explored the perceptions to breastfeeding of young Maltese people between 16 and 17 years of age. The literature review discusses similar studies, which have investigated young people's attitudes towards breastfeeding in other countries, together with influencing factors in infant feeding decisions identified by such people and the effects of breastfeeding promotional campaigns targeted at this age group. In this study a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire was distributed to 60 students, both males and females, attending a local sixth-form. A 100% response rate was obtained. Results show that all participants have seen a baby being bottle-fed while less have witnessed breastfeeding. Overall participants, are aware of the health benefits of breastfeeding, particularly for the baby. Yet, many participants, females in particular, cited various disadvantages to breastfeeding, which are indicative of negative perceptions and of perceived difficulties with breastfeeding. Most participants have never received information about breastfeeding and the majority would like such information, particularly from a midwife, school and the media. Generally participants did not agree to breastfeeding in public places due to issues of privacy and embarrassment. A midwife, the partner, other relatives and friends were considered to be possible positive influences to the choice of breastfeeding. However influences from the media, partner, relatives and friends were also perceived to influence the choice of bottle-feeding. Many participants intend to breastfeed a child of their own and acknowledge breastfeeding as the best infant feeding method. Overall participants anticipate that education on breastfeeding, particularly in schools would help to increase the local breastfeeding rate. The study findings help suggest recommendations for further studies and potential implications for practice where the development of promotional breastfeeding strategies would need to address the evident socially-acquired perceptions of such young people, in order to establish breastfeeding as a social norm.