Clinical Research Directory

Effectiveness of an IMB Model-Based Web Breastfeeding Education Program

This study is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a Web-Based Breastfeeding Education Program based on the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills (IMB) Model. The study aims to examine the effects of the program on breastfeeding self-efficacy, motivation, problems encountered, and exclusive breastfeeding status among primiparous women. Although breastfeeding is the most appropriate and natural form of infant nutrition, breastfeeding rates are still below the desired level both worldwide and in Turkey. According to the 2018 Turkey Demographic and Health Survey, breastfeeding is initiated at a high rate in the immediate postpartum period; however, continuation rates remain low. The main reasons for this include lack of maternal knowledge, limited social support, and restricted access to professional counseling. The recent increase in digital opportunities has introduced web-based interventions in breastfeeding education. Studies in the literature have shown that technology-assisted interventions improve maternal knowledge and motivation and contribute to sustaining breastfeeding. In the first stage of this study, the Breastfeeding Knowledge Test (ASEBT) will be developed and its reliability assessed. The test, prepared based on a literature review and expert opinions, will consist of 30 multiple-choice questions. Reliability and validity analyses will be conducted using the KR-20 coefficient. The second stage will be conducted as a randomized controlled trial. The sample will consist of 70 primiparous pregnant women who meet the inclusion criteria. Participants will be randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group will receive a five-module web-based education program structured according to the IMB model. The modules will cover the importance of breastfeeding, breastfeeding techniques, common problems, mother-infant bonding, and stress management. The program will be supported with digital guides, mini quizzes, virtual badges, motivational messages, and achievement certificates. The control group will only receive routine hospital education. Data will be collected using the Individual Information Form, ASEBT, Antenatal and Postnatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scales, Visual Analog Scale for Motivation, Breastfeeding Motivation Scale, Breastfeeding Problems Assessment Scale, and postpartum follow-up forms. All data will be analyzed using SPSS 22.0 software. After testing normality assumptions, descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, and Pearson correlation analyses will be applied. Results will be evaluated at a 95% confidence interval and a significance level of p\<0.05. Ethical approval and institutional permissions will be obtained prior to implementation. In addition, permissions for the use of the scales will be secured from the original authors. Participation will be voluntary, and informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Throughout the study, ethical principles including confidentiality, respect for autonomy, and non-maleficence/beneficence will be observed. This study aims to introduce a digital-based approach to enhance behavioral outcomes related to breastfeeding. The web-based education program structured according to the IMB Model is expected to improve maternal knowledge and motivation, strengthen breastfeeding self-efficacy, and contribute to longer durations of exclusive breastfeeding. The study is anticipated to provide evidence to support the development and dissemination of technology-assisted educational programs in nursing practice.