Changes of knowledge, attitude and practice of fathers regarding supporting six months exclusive breastfeeding: Results of a communitybased intervention applying social cognitive theory

Tran Huu Bich

Hanoi University of Public Health

Email: thb@huph.edu.vn

 

Objective: This study evaluates the results of the health education intervention aimed at improving paternal knowledge, attitude toward exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and also involvement in supporting EBF.

Methods: A quasi-experimental design was used. At baseline, 390 and 412 pregnant women and their husbands were enrolled into the intervention and control groups, respectively. The 1-year intervention applied social cognitive theory targeting fathers included mass media, game show-style community events, group and individual counseling and home visits.

Main findings: Fathers in the intervention group had higher breastfeeding knowledge scores and higher attitude scores reflecting more positive attitudes toward 6 months EBF, self-effcacy, belief and social norms in practicing EBF. And they were also more likely to report active involvement in supporting mothers to practice EBF through direct and indirect supporting activities.

Conclusions: The community-based education model should be maintained in a package and considered for conducting further evaluation in wider application to mobilize fathers of intact families in supporting EBF.

Keywords: Fathers, knowledge, attitude and practice, Breastfeeding, social cognitive theory.

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