Using Social Cognitive Theory to Predict Breastfeeding in African-American Women

Authors

  • Adryan Eastin
  • Manoj Sharma

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47779/ajhs.2015.187

Keywords:

Black, African American, breast feeding

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to apply social cognitive theory (SCT) to predict breastfeeding initiation and duration in African-American women in a community sample. A total of 238 African-American women completed a 50-item valid and reliable questionnaire assessing their knowledge, expectations, self-efficacy, self-efficacy in overcoming barriers and self-control in initiation and duration of breastfeeding. Regression results indicated that self-efficacy for initiation and self-efficacy in overcoming barriers for initiation were significant predictors for initiation of breastfeeding in African-American women. Logistic regression revealed that self-efficacy to breast feed for more than six months and self-control for duration were significant predictors.

Author Biographies

Adryan Eastin

Adryan Eastin, MS, Clinical Program Consultant, United Healthcare Community & State, 3838 N. Causeway Blvd, Suite 2600, Metairie, LA 70002, Office: 513-290-4820, Fax: 877-545-5348

Manoj Sharma

Manoj Sharma, MBBS, MCHES, Ph.D., FAAHB, Professor, Behavioral & Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jackson State University, 350 W. Woodrow Wilson Dr., Jackson, MS 39213, Office: 601-890-1027, Fax: 601-979-8848

Published

2020-11-15

How to Cite

Eastin, A., & Sharma, M. (2020). Using Social Cognitive Theory to Predict Breastfeeding in African-American Women. American Journal of Health Studies, 30(4). https://doi.org/10.47779/ajhs.2015.187