The development of parenting: nursing resources

Infant massage programs may assist in decreasing parental perceived stress levels in new parents

A qualitative study was conducted to determine whether there is a relationship between the perceived stress levels of new parents in interacting with their infant and the parental implementation of infant massage techniques. A sample of four new parents demonstrated decreased perceived stress levels following involvement in a month long infant massage program, indicating an enhanced perception of their individual parenting abilities. The results of the study indicate that infant massage training is an effective tool to be used in assisting parents/caregivers in the acquisition of the parenting role and the development of role related skills.