BREASTFEEDING INTENTION AND KNOWLEDGE IN SECONDARY-SCHOOL STUDENTS

PARENTAL BREASTFEEDING BEHAVIOR AND ATTITUDE QUESTIONNAIRE

A validated questionnaire is required to evaluate scientifically community-based breastfeeding support and promotion. The aim of this study was to create a valid and reliable questionnaire to measure parents' behavior and attitudes about breastfeeding. The items in the questionnaire were selected by the authors according to regular data from the professional literature, and in consultation with three pediatric lecturers at higher and secondary health education, fellow pediatricians, and parents. A working version of the questionnaire was available on the website of the For a Healthy and Happy Childhood association from February 1, 2019 to May 31, 2019. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Bjelovar General Hospital. After item analysis, 15 behavioral questions that showed good internal consistency were retained. Concerning the attitudes, principal component analysis showed a four-factor structure with 17 items explaining 46.11% of total variance. Cronbach's alpha (0.88) indicated acceptable internal consistency. To analyze the ability of the questionnaire to differentiate parents according to the desired outcome, the χ2-test, correlation and logistic regression were used. In the study, the desired outcome was defined as exclusive breastfeeding for 5 or 6 months, as well as breastfeeding for 12 months or more. In conclusion, the final instrument is reliable and valid for collecting breastfeeding data and evaluating changes in parents' behaviors and attitudes achieved through participation in breastfeeding promotion and support programs. The questionnaire may, in addition to the BIAKQ questionnaire, support professionals and activists involved in breastfeeding to create methodologically well-conceived programs.